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- Citizen Questions (FAQ)
Citizen Questions (FAQ)
- When should I call 911?
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Call 911 for emergencies, crimes in progress, situations involving immediate danger, serious injuries, or when police response is needed right away.
- When should I use the non-emergency number?
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Use the non-emergency number for situations that are not urgent and do not require immediate police response.
- Can I file a police report online?
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Yes. Certain non-emergency incidents may be reported online if:
- The incident occurred within Lorain city limits
- There are no known suspects
- A police officer does not need to respond to the scene
Please review the File a Report page before submitting an online report.
- What types of incidents can be reported online?
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Common incidents that may be reported online include:
- Theft
- Lost property
- Criminal damage
- Harassing phone calls
- Private property accidents (non-injury)
Not all incidents qualify for online reporting.
- How do I request a police report?
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Police reports may be requested through the Lorain Police Department Records Department once they are available. Most reports are available within 72 hours, depending on the type of incident and investigation status.
See the Request Records page for details.
- How do I obtain a crash report?
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Most traffic crash reports are available through the Ohio Department of Public Safety Crash Retrieval System. Recent crash reports may not be immediately available online.
Additional guidance is available on the Request Records page.
- How long does it take for reports to be available?
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- Most police reports are available within 72 hours
- Crash reports may take several days to appear in the state system
- Some reports may be delayed due to active investigations
- How do I get a bicycle license?
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Bicycle licenses are available through the City Auditor’s Office.
Contact Information
Phone: (440) 204-2090
Hours: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday
- Where can I get fingerprinted?
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Civilian fingerprinting is handled by the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office.
Contact Information
Lorain County Sheriff’s Office – Record Room
Phone: (440) 329-3703
Please contact the Record Room directly for available hours and fingerprinting times.
- How do I pay a traffic citation?
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Traffic citations must be paid at the Clerk of Courts Office, located on the 2nd floor of Lorain City Hall.
Office Hours
8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday
The current waiver schedule and payment information can be found on the City of Lorain website: https://www.loraincountyohio.gov/384/Make-a-Payment
- My car was towed. What do I do?
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If your vehicle was towed or impounded, you must first obtain a vehicle release from the Lorain Police Department Record Room. You will have 10 days from the date of notification to claim.
Please bring:
- Proof of vehicle registration or title
Once you have the release, contact the towing company below.
Towing Service Provider
Sugar Ridge Towing
Phone: (440) 723-2615
Address: 41524 Griswold Road, Elyria, OH
- Can I remain anonymous when submitting information?
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Yes. Online reports and commendations may be submitted without providing personal contact information, depending on the type of submission.
- How do I commend an officer or employee?
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You may submit a commendation through the Commend an Officer page. Commendations are reviewed by department leadership and shared with the employee being recognized.