FAQ's

How do I make a Public Records request?

All Public Information Requests are now processed thru our public records portal, NextRequest. Requests can still be made via mail, fax, email, or in person, but will be entered into the portal for processing.

Mail:

Wayne County Emergency Communications

401 E Main Street, Richmond, IN 47374

Fax: (765) 973-9468

Email: dispatch@co.wayne.in.us

In Person: 401 E Main Street, Richmond, IN 47374

Who can initiate a Public Records request?

Anyone may initiate a request for public records.

Can a Public Records request be initiated anonymously?

Anonymous requests are accepted, but a valid email address or other contact information must be provided in order for the request to be completed. If no identifiable information is provided and a valid email address is not utilized, the request is considered "abandoned" and will not be fulfilled.

What type of information can I request?

Public Records requests may be used to obtain "agency records," which include a wide variety of documents and other materials (including print, photographic, and electronic formats) that were created or obtained by the agency and are, at the time the request is filed, in the County's possession and control. Indiana's Access to Public Records Code (IC 5-14-3-4) excludes certain categories of records from disclosure.

How soon must the agency respond to my request?

Per Indiana Code, the agency must provide acknowledgement of the receipt of the request within 24 hours if the request is in person. Mail, faxes, emails, and online forms must be acknowledged within 7 business days. Fulfillment of the request must then be within a "reasonable time" of the agency which is determinant upon the amount of the data requested, the specificity of the request, and the workload/call volume of Wayne County Emergency Communications Department. A generalized expectation should be within 10-15 business days. Should your request be more detailed or complex, you will be kept apprised of the anticipated date of delivery of the requested documents.

How much will I be charged for my request?

Currently, Wayne County does not charge for producing public information request records.

What records are exempt from disclosure?

The Indiana Public Records Code explains that a number of document types and information are prohibited from being disclosed or are exempt from public inspection and copying. Types of documents or information that may not be available are: documents currently involved or linked with an "active criminal investigation" by the investigating law enforcement agency and/or the Wayne County Prosecutor's Office, records involving a minor (under the age of 18), or protected health (medical) information. A comprehensive explanation of those exemptions can be found in Indiana Code 5-14-3-4.

If only a portion of a record is exempt from disclosure, the Public Records Officer or designee will redact the exempted portions before providing the document.

How long is the County required to keep public records?

Wayne County Emergency Communications follows the Indiana Public Safety Retention Scheduled Local Governments, which can be found and frequently updated by the Indiana Archives and Records Administration.