How to file a police report in Charlotte, NC
Two separate things get confused here: filing a new report about something that happened, and obtaining a copy of a report that already exists. Both routes for Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department - Metro Division - Headquarters are below, together with the number to call if neither applies.
Source: charlottenc.gov · checked October 25, 2026
Official forms
Which route to use
What to have ready
- Date, time, and exact address or cross-streets.
- What was taken or damaged, with serial numbers, makes, and models where you have them, and an estimated value.
- Photographs of damage or of the scene.
- Any suspect or vehicle description, and whether a camera might have caught it.
- Your own contact details, and your insurance claim number if there is one.
Filing a knowingly false report is a criminal offence in every state.
Questions
Can I file a Charlotte police report online?
Yes — Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department - Metro Division - Headquarters runs an online reporting system, linked above. Online systems normally accept only incidents with no suspect information and no injuries: theft from a vehicle, lost property, vandalism, minor fraud. Anything involving a known suspect, a weapon, or a victim who was hurt has to go through the non-emergency line or in person.
How do I get a copy of a Charlotte police or crash report?
Through the records division, linked above. You will usually need the case number, the date, and the names involved, plus a fee and photo ID. Crash reports are often held for several days before release while they are reviewed.
How long does it take?
An online report is typically acknowledged by email within a day or two with a case number; some departments review and reject submissions that should have been phoned in. Report copies commonly take three to ten business days. Crash reports are frequently withheld until the investigating officer has signed off.
Do I need a report number for insurance?
Almost always, yes — for theft, vandalism, and collisions. Ask for it on the call, and write down the officer's name and badge number too.