Kentucky Open Records Act
How to Request Use of Force Reports in Kentucky
You can ask a Kentucky police department for use of force reports under the Kentucky Open Records Act (KRS 61.870 to 61.884). Response timeline: The agency must respond within 5 business days (KRS 61.880(1)). IMPORTANT: since June 29, 2021, only Kentucky residents (or businesses, property owners and news organizations in Kentucky) may request records, and the request must include a statement that you are a Kentucky resident (KRS 61.870(10), 61.872(2)).. Be as specific as you can about the date, place, and people involved, and ask for electronic copies.
Last reviewed October 7, 2026. Statute: KRS 61.870 to 61.884.
Write your Kentucky request
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Frequently asked questions
- Can I get use of force reports from a Kentucky police department?
- You can request use of force reports under the Kentucky Open Records Act (KRS 61.870 to 61.884). Some records may be withheld or redacted under exemptions in the law, for example for open investigations or privacy.
- What should I include in a request for use of force reports?
- Name the department, describe the records as precisely as you can (date, time, location, officer name or badge number, case number), ask for electronic copies, and ask for a fee estimate first.
- How long will it take?
- The response timeline under the Kentucky Open Records Act (KRS 61.870 to 61.884) is: The agency must respond within 5 business days (KRS 61.880(1)). IMPORTANT: since June 29, 2021, only Kentucky residents (or businesses, property owners and news organizations in Kentucky) may request records, and the request must include a statement that you are a Kentucky resident (KRS 61.870(10), 61.872(2)).. Large video requests can take longer if the agency needs to review or redact footage.