Massillon Police Records are official documents created and maintained by the Massillon Police Department in Ohio. These records include arrest reports, traffic crash reports, incident summaries, and investigation logs. Every year, the department handles over 5,200 incident reports, ensuring transparency and accountability under Ohio law. The Records Office, led by two full-time specialists, verifies each report before it becomes part of the public archive. Residents, employers, and legal professionals rely on these records for background checks, insurance claims, and court proceedings. Access is governed by the Ohio Freedom of Information Act, with clear rules on fees, redactions, and processing times.
How to Request Massillon Police Records
Requests for Massillon Police Records can be made in three ways: in person, by mail, or online through the department’s official portal. Each request must include the requester’s full name, contact information, and a description of the record needed. A $5 processing fee applies per report, and payments are accepted in cash, check, or money order. Most records are available within five business days, though complex cases may take longer. Sensitive details like juvenile names, victim identities, and ongoing investigation data are redacted to comply with Ohio Revised Code Chapter 149. Third-party services such as RecordsFinder and MyAccident.org also provide access, but users should verify the legitimacy of these platforms before submitting personal information.
Types of Records Available
The Massillon Police Department maintains several types of records. Arrest logs list the date, time, charge, and arresting officer for every booking. Incident reports describe crimes, disturbances, or calls for service, including officer narratives and witness statements. Traffic collision reports include vehicle damage assessments, driver information, and citation details. These documents are used by insurance companies, legal teams, and individuals involved in accidents. Mugshots are available only when legally permitted and are often included in arrest records. All records reflect the most recent court dispositions, ensuring accuracy for employment or housing background checks.
Records Office Staff and Responsibilities
The Records Office is staffed by two full-time Records Specialists who ensure every police report is accurate and complete before entering the public database. Penny Berg, Administrative Assistant to the Chief, manages correspondence, data entry, and file organization. Michelle Davis oversees release requests and enforces compliance with state laws. Together, they process thousands of reports annually and assist the public with inquiries. The office operates Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. For assistance, call 330-830-1762. The department’s main line is 330-830-1735. All staff follow strict protocols to protect privacy while providing timely access to public information.
Online Access and Third-Party Services
Massillon Police Records can be accessed online through the city’s official portal or trusted third-party sites. MyAccident.org offers electronic crash reports for $5 per document. Users must provide the report number, driver’s license number, license plate, date and time of the accident, location, involved parties, and contact details. Once submitted, a PDF is generated within 24 hours. RecordsFinder aggregates data from municipal, county, and state sources, offering full criminal histories, charge codes, and officer badge numbers. These platforms comply with Ohio Revised Code §§ 148.01–148.13, ensuring up-to-date and legally sound records. Always verify the website’s authenticity to avoid scams.
Legal Framework and Compliance
Access to Massillon Police Records is governed by the Ohio Freedom of Information Act and Ohio Revised Code Chapter 149. These laws define what information is public and what must be withheld. Juvenile records, ongoing investigations, and personal identifiers are redacted to protect privacy. The $5 processing fee is set by state guidelines and covers administrative costs. Records must be released within a reasonable time, typically five business days. Third-party services must also follow these rules, ensuring that all data reflects current court rulings. Failure to comply can result in legal penalties. The department regularly audits its processes to maintain transparency and public trust.
Fees, Processing Times, and Payment Methods
Each Massillon Police Record request costs $5, payable by cash, check, or money order. There are no exceptions for fee waivers unless required by law. Processing takes five business days for standard requests. Complex cases, such as those involving multiple incidents or legal reviews, may take up to ten days. Payments must accompany mailed requests. Online payments are accepted through secure portals. Receipts are provided upon request. Late fees or penalties do not apply, but incomplete requests will be delayed until all information is received. The department does not accept credit cards at this time.
Redactions and Privacy Protections
Sensitive information in Massillon Police Records is redacted to protect individuals’ privacy. This includes names of minors, victims of certain crimes, and details of ongoing investigations. Social Security numbers, medical information, and home addresses are also removed. Redactions follow strict guidelines under Ohio law. Officers and records staff are trained to identify and remove protected data before release. If a record is heavily redacted, a summary explanation is provided. Requesters can appeal redactions through the city’s legal office. These measures ensure compliance while allowing public access to essential information.
Using Records for Background Checks
Massillon Police Records are commonly used for employment, housing, and licensing background checks. Employers verify criminal histories, while landlords screen potential tenants. Licensing agencies, such as those for security guards or daycare providers, require clean records. Records include charge descriptions, booking dates, dispositions, and officer details. Third-party sites like CountyOffice.org provide searchable databases with mugshots when available. All data is updated regularly to reflect court outcomes. Users should confirm the record’s accuracy with the issuing agency. False or outdated information can be corrected through a formal request.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Massillon Police Department is located at Street Level 2, James Duncan Plaza, Suite 1, Massillon, OH 44646. The Records Office is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 am to 4:30 pm. For emergencies, dial 911. Non-emergency dispatch is available at 330-832-9811. The main station phone is 330-830-1735. Chief Keith Moser can be reached at 330-830-1762. Support Division Commander Paul Covert is available at 330-830-1753. Uniform Division Commander Bill Peel handles patrol-related inquiries during business hours. All emails are protected and should be sent through the official website contact form.
Frequently Asked Questions
Residents often ask how to get a copy of a police report, whether fees can be waived, and how long records are kept. The department provides a detailed FAQ section on its website. Common questions include reporting non-emergencies, accessing arrest logs, and correcting errors in records. Answers are updated regularly to reflect policy changes. The FAQ also explains the difference between public and restricted records. For additional help, call the Records Office or visit in person during business hours.
Recent Updates and Database Improvements
In July 2022, the Massillon Police Department updated its public records database with 1,214 new case entries from the Stark County Court system. This improved search accuracy for legal professionals and researchers. The system now allows filtering by document type, filing date, or case number. Updates occur monthly to ensure all records reflect current court dispositions. The department also enhanced its online portal for faster request processing. These improvements support transparency and make it easier for the public to access reliable information.
Inmate and Jail Records
The Massillon Police Department works with the Stark County Jail to maintain an online inmate roster. This list includes current detainees, booking dates, charges, and projected release dates. The roster was last updated on June 4, 2022. It is available on the department’s website and is refreshed weekly. The city jail is located at 2 James Duncan Plaza, Massillon, OH 44646. Inmate records are public but do not include medical or mental health information. Families and attorneys can use this system to track detainees. Links to court calendars and victim notification services are also provided.
Community Impact and Transparency
The Massillon Police Department serves a population of 32,215 people within a 13-square-mile area. With 47 sworn officers and 12 civilian staff, the department emphasizes community policing and crime prevention. In 2022, the clearance rate for violent crimes was 68%. Public access to records supports accountability and builds trust. The department hosts outreach programs and regularly publishes crime statistics. Transparency initiatives include open records policies and public meetings. These efforts help residents stay informed and engaged in local safety efforts.
Related Resources and External Links
For broader access to Ohio public records, users can visit Ohio.StateRecords.org, which includes arrest logs, court filings, and property deeds. CountyOffice.org provides detailed arrest and mugshot searches. MyAccident.org specializes in crash reports. RecordsFinder offers comprehensive criminal histories. These platforms are independent but must comply with Ohio law. Always verify the source before sharing personal information. The Massillon Police Department does not endorse third-party sites but acknowledges their role in public access.
How to Correct Errors in Police Records
If you find an error in your Massillon Police Record, such as incorrect charges or outdated information, you can request a correction. Submit a written appeal to the Records Office with supporting documents, such as court dismissal papers or identity verification. The review process takes up to 14 business days. If the error is confirmed, the record will be updated and a corrected copy issued. If denied, you can appeal to the city’s legal department. Keeping accurate records protects your rights and ensures fair treatment in employment, housing, and legal matters.
Understanding Redaction Codes and Report Formats
Massillon Police Records use standard redaction codes to indicate removed information. For example, “[REDACTED – JUVENILE]” means a minor’s name was withheld. “[REDACTED – VICTIM]” protects a victim’s identity. Reports follow a consistent format: header with case number and date, incident summary, officer narrative, involved parties, and disposition. Charge codes are listed numerically, matching Ohio criminal statutes. Understanding these formats helps users interpret records correctly. Training materials are available on the department’s website for legal professionals and researchers.
Role of the Chief and Command Staff
Chief Keith Moser oversees all operations of the Massillon Police Department. He ensures policies align with state laws and community needs. Support Division Commander Paul Covert manages outreach, training, and administrative functions. Uniform Division Commander Bill Peel coordinates patrols and responds to public inquiries. Each leader plays a key role in maintaining transparency and accountability. They regularly review records procedures to improve efficiency and compliance. Their leadership supports a culture of openness and public service.
Emergency vs. Non-Emergency Reporting
For life-threatening situations, call 911 immediately. For non-emergencies, such as noise complaints, minor accidents, or suspicious activity, call the Dispatch Center at 330-832-9811. This helps prioritize urgent calls and reduces wait times. Non-emergency reports are still documented and may lead to investigations. Always provide accurate details, including location, time, and descriptions. Misuse of 911 can result in fines. The department encourages responsible reporting to keep the community safe.
Data Retention and Archive Policies
Massillon Police Records are kept for varying lengths of time based on type and severity. Arrest records are retained indefinitely unless expunged. Traffic reports are kept for seven years. Incident reports are archived for ten years. Digital records are backed up securely and protected from unauthorized access. Paper files are stored in a climate-controlled facility. Expungement requests must be approved by a judge. The department follows Ohio’s records retention schedule to ensure compliance and efficient storage.
Public Access and Open Government
The Massillon Police Department supports open government principles. All non-restricted records are available to the public upon request. The department publishes annual reports, crime statistics, and budget summaries. Meetings of the Police Advisory Board are open to residents. Transparency builds trust and encourages community involvement. The department welcomes feedback and suggestions for improvement. Public access to records is a cornerstone of democratic policing.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get a copy of my arrest record from Massillon Police? You can request it in person, by mail, or online. Include your full name, date of birth, and case number if known. A $5 fee applies. Processing takes five business days. Redactions may apply for privacy.
Can I access someone else’s police record? Only if you are a legal representative, employer with consent, or involved party. Third-party requests require authorization. Juvenile records are never released to the public.
Are crash reports available online? Yes, through MyAccident.org for $5. You’ll need the report number, driver’s license, and accident details. PDFs are delivered within 24 hours.
How long does it take to get a record? Most requests are processed in five business days. Complex cases may take up to ten days. Delays occur if information is missing.
Can I correct a mistake in my record? Yes. Submit a written request with proof, such as court documents. The review takes up to 14 days. If approved, a corrected copy is issued.
What records are not public? Juvenile information, ongoing investigations, medical data, and victim identities are redacted. Some records may be sealed by court order.
Is there a fee waiver for low-income requesters? Not currently. The $5 fee is set by state law. Exceptions are rare and require legal approval.
Massillon Police Department
Street Level 2, James Duncan Plaza, Suite 1
Massillon, OH 44646
Phone: 330-830-1735
Records Office: 330-830-1762
Non-Emergency Dispatch: 330-832-9811
Office Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm