Atlanta Police Dept Records gives you direct access to official police reports, accident records, arrest logs, and public safety data through secure city systems. The Central Records Unit at the Atlanta Public Safety Annex, 3493 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW, handles all in-person requests Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Limited parking is available next to the MARTA station. For remote users, the department uses www.buycrash.com to sell certified collision reports online. Call (404) 546-7461 during business hours for help with fees or ID requirements.
How to Request Atlanta Police Dept Records
You can get Atlanta Police Dept Records three ways: online, by mail, or in person. Online requests go through www.buycrash.com for accident reports only. You’ll need the crash date, report number (if known), driver’s full legal name, and a verified address. After submitting, a sworn officer reviews your request and sends a PDF within three to five business days for a $10 fee paid by credit card.
For non-accident records like arrest logs or investigation files, visit the Open Records Unit at 226 Peachtree St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303. The office is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mail requests must include a completed form, photo ID copy, and a short description of the records needed. Unanswered requests after three business days should be followed up by calling (404) 546-7448.
Types of Records Available
Atlanta Police Dept Records include accident reports, daily arrest logs, incident summaries, and criminal history files for people detained or charged in the city. Each record shows the date, location, case number, officer badge number, and charges filed. Collision reports contain diagrams, witness statements, and photos when available.
The department also publishes weekly crime reports with real-time data. For example, the August 1–7, 2022 report listed a multiple-person shooting at 477 Windsor St. SW, a firearm discharge at 845 York St. SW, and a fatal shooting at 1368 Lakewood Ave SE. These reports include 911 audio links and suspect photos when released.
Fees and Processing Times
Most Atlanta Police Dept Records cost $10 per report when requested online. In-person and mailed requests may have per-page fees, especially for large files. Academic researchers with a university letter get reduced rates. Standard processing takes three to five business days. High-volume periods like summer may delay responses.
Payment methods vary by request type. Online purchases require credit or debit cards. In-person payments accept cash, check, or card. Mailed requests must include a check or money order payable to the Atlanta Police Department.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Central Records Unit is located at 3493 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW, Atlanta, GA 30331. It operates Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The Open Records Unit at 226 Peachtree St SW is open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. on weekdays. Fax submissions go to (404) 653-7987.
For questions, call (404) 546-7461 for Central Records or (404) 546-7448 for the Open Records Unit. Email inquiries should use the secure form on the city’s Open Records portal. Emergency requests related to active investigations may be expedited with supervisor approval.
Online Tools and Public Access Portals
The Atlanta Police Department uses ATL311 for non-emergency services and record tracking. Residents can report issues, view crime maps, and check the status of their requests. The portal also links to weekly crime data and officer assignments.
For collision reports, www.buycrash.com is the only official online store. It verifies your identity and delivers certified copies via email. Do not use third-party sites—they are not affiliated with the city and may charge extra fees.
Privacy and Legal Requirements
All Atlanta Police Dept Requests must include a valid photo ID and proof of address. Minors’ records require guardian consent. Some files, like ongoing investigations or juvenile cases, are restricted by Georgia law. Redacted versions may be provided upon request.
The department follows the Georgia Open Records Act. Most documents must be released within three business days unless exempt. Denied requests include a written explanation. Appeals can be filed with the city’s Information Management team.
Crime Statistics and Annual Reports
In 2017, Atlanta recorded 27,495 arrests with a crime rate of 571.21 per 100,000 residents. Violent crime stood at 93.57, while property crimes were 477.64. The department publishes yearly comparisons showing trends across zones and crime types.
Recent data shows a 2.4% drop in property crimes since 2019. Arrest numbers have stayed stable. These stats help residents understand safety patterns and support community policing efforts.
Staff and Department Structure
The Atlanta Police Department employs over 800 sworn officers and 250 civilian staff. It includes 41 agencies covering city, county, campus, and transit zones. Each unit maintains its own logs but shares data through a central digital system.
Chief of Police and command staff oversee operations from headquarters at 226 Peachtree St SW. The Open Records Custodian can be reached at (404) 546-0311. Debra Cummings, the Open Records Coordinator, handles daily inquiries at (404) 546-1067.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people forget to include their full legal name or correct address when requesting records. Others submit incomplete forms or miss the photo ID requirement. Always double-check your submission before sending.
Do not call 911 for record requests. Use the non-emergency line only for urgent safety issues. For general questions, email or visit during office hours to avoid delays.
How to Track Your Request
After submitting a request, save your confirmation number. You can check status online through ATL311 or by calling (404) 546-7448. Most requests are processed within five business days. Complex cases may take longer.
If you don’t hear back in three days, follow up immediately. The department aims to respond to all inquiries promptly but may need extra time during peak periods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a police report without the case number?
Yes. Provide the crash date, driver’s name, and location. The officer will search using available details. Reports without numbers may take longer to locate.
Are autopsy reports included in police records?
No. Autopsy reports come from the Fulton County Medical Examiner. Contact them separately at (404) 613-4700.
Can I request records for someone else?
Only with written permission or legal authority. Include a signed consent form or court order with your request.
Do I need an appointment to visit Central Records?
No appointment needed. Walk-ins are welcome Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Arrive early to avoid lines.
Are online reports legally valid?
Yes. PDFs from www.buycrash.com are certified and accepted by insurance companies and courts.
What if my request is denied?
You’ll receive a letter explaining why. Common reasons include ongoing investigations or privacy laws. You may appeal within 30 days.
Can I get records by phone?
No. All requests must be submitted in writing, online, or in person. Phone calls are for questions only.
Official Resources
Central Records Unit: 3493 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW, Atlanta, GA 30331
Open Records Unit: 226 Peachtree St SW, Atlanta, GA 30303
Phone: (404) 546-7461 (Central Records), (404) 546-7448 (Open Records)
Fax: (404) 653-7987
Online Portal: www.buycrash.com
City Website: https://www.atlantapd.org