We will do our best to respond to you on the same day of your inquiry. Please note that it may take longer for a response to some types of inquiries (e.g. general inquiries on crime trends, statistics requests, etc.). Our Watch Commanders will evaluate each incoming request and do their best to respond in a timely manner, while balancing their other job responsibilities.
For major crime scenes, critical incidents, or breaking news events, please complete this form as well so that we can easily retrieve your contact information and manage your request. The police administration will designate someone to act as a public information officer in these specific events so that we can continue our longstanding practice of providing accurate public safety information in a timely way on major cases. The person serving in this capacity, depending on the incident, will be available for on-camera or radio interviews.
If you are a member of the media who wants to make a request for statistics or other records pursuant to the California Public Records Act, please do not use the form on this page. Instead, please visit the City of Palo Alto's Public Records Request page and complete the form there. This facilitates tracking of your request and ensures the appropriate staff will work to fulfill it as expeditiously as possible.