Is the police report on a case and what they call “discovery”, public record or kept private?
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Is the police report on a case and what they call “discovery”, public record or kept private?
Asked on November 10, 2015 under Criminal Law, Ohio
Answers:
SJZ, Member, New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney
Answered 8 years ago | Contributor
Police reports and the evidence found by police is typically public record, but there are a number of exceptions:
1) During an active investigation or while a case is pending, the authorities may often hold back information (other than from the defendant, who can get it at the appropriate times in his/her case) to prevent the case from being compromised or damaged.
2) Information that would identify confidential informants or undercover officers, etc. is generally withheld.
3) Certain information about minors or victims of sexual assaults is generally withheld.
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