FAQ

What types of records can I request from Chagrin Valley Dispatch?

  • 911 Calls
  • Non-Emergency Calls
  • Radio Traffic
  • Copies of Calls for Service (CAD Calls)
  • Other items that fall under the FOIA

How long are audio recordings kept for?

911 calls, non-emergency phone calls, and radio traffic are only retained for 5 months.


Are there any costs associated with obtaining a public record?  

All records requests are fulfilled at no cost because information is gathered, duplicated and sent electronically.


How long will it take to process my request? 

Ohio law permits public entities a reasonable period of time to process and respond to records requests. Reasonableness takes into account many factors such as the size and scope of the request, the ability to gather records from a single or multiple sources and locations, the need to review records for legal reasons and for redactions, and other factors. There is no fixed time within which public entities must respond, so long as that time is reasonable under the law.


How will I be contacted when my request is fulfilled? 

You may identify how you wish to be contacted when making the request, and Chagrin Valley Dispatch will honor that request. Keep in mind requests may be made anonymously, but Chagrin Valley Dispatch will need a way to contact you in order to deliver records.


What are some tips for making a proper records request?  

Although no specific language is required to make a request, you must at least identify the records requested with the sufficient clarity and specificity to allow the city to identify, retrieve, and review the records. The more information that you provide, the quicker the records can be retrieved. The basic information needed for a request is:

  • Date of Incident
  • Time of Incident
  • City of the Incident
  • Address of Incident
  • Incident Number and/or Call for Service (CAD) Number
  • Type of record you are requesting

Do I have to reveal the reason for my request? 

No. The Public Records Act neither requires you to specify the reason for the request nor use particular wording to make a request.