New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL)
How to Request Use of Force Reports in New York
You can ask a New York police department for use of force reports under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90). Response timeline: Agencies must acknowledge a request within 5 business days (POL s. 89(3)).. Be as specific as you can about the date, place, and people involved, and ask for electronic copies.
Last reviewed September 30, 2026. Statute: Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90.
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Frequently asked questions
- Can I get use of force reports from a New York police department?
- You can request use of force reports under the New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90). 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 New York Freedom of Information Law (FOIL) (Public Officers Law, Sections 84 to 90) is: Agencies must acknowledge a request within 5 business days (POL s. 89(3)).. Large video requests can take longer if the agency needs to review or redact footage.