Campbell County Kentucky Police Records Guide

Campbell County sits along the Ohio River in Northern Kentucky. The county seat is Newport, with other cities including Fort Thomas and Alexandria. Residents can obtain police records from multiple agencies serving different jurisdictions throughout the county. The Campbell County Sheriff's Office, Campbell County Police Department, Newport Police Department, and Fort Thomas Police Department each maintain separate records systems. Each department follows the Kentucky Open Records Act when processing public requests. Understanding which agency handled an incident helps you request the right documents quickly and efficiently. This guide provides contact information and procedures for each law enforcement agency in Campbell County.

Campbell County Sheriff's Office Police Records

The Campbell County Sheriff's Office maintains police records for incidents handled by deputy sheriffs. Sheriff Mike Jansen leads the office with a focus on professional service. The main office sits on Monmouth Street in Newport near the county courthouse. A satellite office operates in Alexandria for residents in the southern part of the county.

Kentucky law gives sheriffs specific duties. They serve civil and criminal process throughout the county. They execute warrants and provide court security. These duties shape the records the Sheriff's Office creates and maintains. You can request copies of incident reports and other documents through their online portal.

The Sheriff's Office warns citizens about phone scams. No member of their staff will call to demand payment over the phone. Scammers often impersonate law enforcement to steal money. If you receive such a call, hang up and contact the Sheriff's Office directly. Verify any request for payment through official channels.

Note: The Sheriff warns that no staff member will ever call to solicit payment over the phone.

Campbell County Police Department Records

The Campbell County Police Department operates as a separate agency from the Sheriff's Office. Chief Craig Patrick Sorrell leads this accredited, full-service law enforcement agency. Their jurisdiction covers unincorporated areas of the county. They also serve the cities of Crestview and Silver Grove. The Licking River and the Kentucky side of the Ohio River fall under their watch.

Accreditation means the department meets high standards for professional policing. Officers undergo rigorous training and follow established best practices. This commitment to excellence extends to their records management. They maintain accurate, detailed reports for all incidents within their jurisdiction.

Contact the Records Specialist before submitting your request. Public records laws can be complex. The specialist can help you understand what records are available. They will guide you through the proper request process. Call (859) 547-3100 to speak with them directly.

Newport Police Department Police Records

Newport serves as the county seat and largest city in Campbell County. Chief Christopher M. Fangman leads the Newport Police Department with a vision of excellence. The department strives to be a benchmark of professionalism in Northern Kentucky. Their commitment shows in their approach to public service and records access.

You must pick up police reports in person at the Newport Police Department. Bring a valid photo ID when you come. Allow five business days for processing before picking up your report. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Plan your visit during these times to ensure staff can assist you.

Collision reports follow a different process. You can obtain these through BuyCrash.com for online convenience. Insurance companies can also request them in person for a five dollar fee. This dual approach gives you options based on your needs and timeline.

Access to non-collision reports has restrictions. Only those named on the report may obtain copies. This policy protects sensitive information while maintaining transparency. The Kentucky Open Records Act governs any exceptions to this rule. Staff will verify your eligibility before releasing documents.

Note: Newport Police does not perform background checks; contact Kentucky State Police for these requests.

Fort Thomas Police Department Records

Fort Thomas sits on the Ohio River across from Cincinnati. The Fort Thomas Police Department serves this historic community with dedication. Chief Casey Kilgore leads a department committed to working with residents. They uphold high standards of character in all their services.

Melissa K. Beckett serves as City Clerk and official records custodian. She handles all open records requests for the city. You can email her at mbeckett@ftthomas.org with your request. Visiting in person works too. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The city responds to requests within five business days. They will provide the records or explain why they cannot. Sometimes they need extra time to gather documents. You will receive written notice of any delays. This process follows Kentucky law.

Only Kentucky residents may request public records here. KRS 61.870(10) defines residency for open records purposes. The definition includes individuals and businesses in the Commonwealth. News-gathering organizations also qualify. You must confirm your residency status when submitting a request.

Kentucky Open Records Act and Police Records

KRS 61.870 through 61.884 governs access to public records in Campbell County. These statutes create a uniform process across all Kentucky agencies. You have the right to inspect and copy most government documents. Police records fall under this law with some exemptions for ongoing investigations.

KRS 189.635 specifically addresses accident reports. This statute limits who can obtain collision reports from law enforcement. Parties to the accident have access. Insurance companies and attorneys representing parties may also request them. Parents of minors involved in crashes qualify as well.

Fees vary by agency in Campbell County. Most charge ten cents per page for written documents. Non-written records like photos or digital files cost more. Agencies may charge their actual production costs. Ask about fees when you submit your request.

Follow these tips for a successful request. Be specific about the records you want. Include dates, names, and locations when possible. Provide your contact information clearly. State that you are a Kentucky resident. Sign and date your written request.

Nearby Counties

These counties border Campbell County and may have related police records. Incidents near county lines might involve multiple agencies. Check with neighboring jurisdictions if you cannot find a record in Campbell County.

Cities in Campbell County

Campbell County contains several municipalities with their own police departments or shared services. Contact the appropriate agency based on where an incident occurred.