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1. How do I obtain a copy of a record?

Copies of records can be obtained in person through the Chief's Administrative Assistant at the Orleans Police Department during normal business hours. Business hours are 8:15 am to 2:15 pm, Monday through Friday. The Records Bureau can be accessed through the front lobby of the Police Department at 99 Eldredge Park Way, Orleans, MA 02653. Records requests can also be made via mail. To request a copy of a record through the mail, a records requests form should be filled out and sent to the records office, along with payment by check (payable to Town of Orleans), and a self-addressed, stamped envelope. This will expedite your request. Please note that there is a nominal charge for all copies of records.

• Police Report Request

2. Can I receive a copy of any type of record?

No, under state law certain records are not available. Examples of records that are not available include: 

• Accidents or incidents involving criminal charges which may result in incarceration and have not been adjudicated
• Accidents or incidents which are still under investigation
• Records that are expressly prohibited from disclosure to the public by statute
• Arrest records

You may acquire a copy of your record from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Criminal History System's Board. Forms for such a request are available at the Orleans Police Department, or information may be obtained via the website.

3. What is the cost of a record?

Under Chapter 66 of Massachusetts General Law, the cost of a record is $0.50 for each side of a page. For requests which require more than 20 minutes to complete, a prorated hourly fee for search time and segregation time expenses, as defined by CMR 32.03, may be assessed.

4. How long will it take to obtain the record?

If the record is a public record and it is in our files, you may usually pick it up the next business day. Unusually lengthy records or photographs may take longer.

5. How do I obtain copies of photographs?

Requests for photographs are made through the same means as copies of records. Please contact Greta Montgomery at the Records Office for a quote on the cost of photographs.