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California Public Records Act

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1. What is the "California Public Records Act? (Gov Code 6252 et seq)

The California Public Records Act (“CPRA”) is California state law that gives the public the right to inspect and copy many records retained by governmental agencies in the course of business. When enacting the CPRA, the California legislature declared "that access to information concerning the conduct of the people's business is a fundamental and necessary right of every person" in the state. (Gov Code § 6250) The purpose of the CPRA is to safeguard the accountability of government to the public. (Rogers v. Superior Court (1993) 19 cal. App. 4th 469) The CPRA regulates the public's access to the records and contains limited defined exemptions where records need not be disclosed.

2. What is a Public Record?

A public record is any writing containing information relating to the conduct of the public's business prepared, owned, used, or retained by any state or local agency regardless of physical form or characteristic. (Gov. Code 6252(e)) "Writing" means any handwriting, typewriting, printing, photographing, photocopying, transmitting by electronic mail or facsimile, and every other means of recording upon any tangible thing, any form of communication or representation, including letters, words, pictures, sounds, or symbols, or combinations thereof, and any record thereby created, regardless of the manner in which the record has been stored.(Gov Code 6252 (g))

3. Who can make a Public Records Act Request?

Any member of the public can make a Public Records Act request. A "member of the public" includes any person except a "member, agent, officer, or employee of a federal, state, or local agency acting within the scope of his or her membership, agency, office, or employment”. (Gov Code 6252(b))

4. Can a public records request be made anonymously?

Yes. A requester is not required to provide their name when making a request. In order to receive the records, the requester will need to provide their choice of email or mailing address.

5. Do I have to specify my reason for making a Public Records Act request?

No. The CPRA specifically provides every person a right to inspect or receive copies of any public record, subject to specified exceptions. (Gov Code 6253(a))

6. Who at the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office is Responsible for Responding to CPRA Requests?

While there are many ways to make a CPRA requests, the Sheriff has made a CPRA unit within the Professional Standards Bureau to process CPRA requests. Once a CPRA request is received, the requester will receive a notification email which will provide a brief summary of the request and a tentative date for a response from the CPRA unit. A requester may choose to have the CPRA response from the Sheriff's portal (suggested), via email, via standard mail, or by picking the documents up in person. Charges may apply to either mail the requested records or to pick up the requested records in person.

Routine requests for reports can oftentimes be made at the patrol station responsible for the jurisdiction where the report was taken. The Sheriff's Office recommends members of the public contact their local patrol station to determine if their requested report is available through the station prior to making a CPRA request.

7. Are all public records subject to public disclosure?

No. The CPRA expressly exempts particular public records from disclosure. The CPRA also provides agencies with an exemption which can be applied after a review of the records to determine whether a document is exempt from disclosure on a case by case basis.

8. Does a request for records have to be in writing?

No. A request may be made in writing, verbally, or via our online portal.

The Sheriff's Office provides several options the requester may use to make a CPRA request:

1. In writing to:

   Riverside County Sheriff’s Office

   ATTN: CPRA Unit

   4095 Lemon Street, 1st Floor

   Riverside CA 92501

2. In person at any station-see our Patrol Station page for the addresses for Riverside County Sheriff’s facilities
3. Via our Transparency page
4. Via email

(Options C and D, in most cases, will result in a quicker response)

9. When are records to be made available for inspection?

Public records are always open to inspection during the public lobby hours at Sheriff’s facilities open to the public. Any reasonably segregable portion of a record will be made available for inspection after deletion of the portions that are exempted by law. (Gov Code 6253(a))

Some records may not be available for immediate inspection as it may be necessary to review and redact portions of the record(s). (Cal. Gov. Code § 6253(a); American Civ. Liberties Union Found’n v. Deukmejian (1982) 32 Cal.3d 440, 452-454)

Some of the most commonly requested records are proactively posted online. Please visit our Transparency page and scroll down to the middle of the page to determine if the requested record is available there before making a CPRA request.

10. If a person wants to inspect or obtain a copy of a public record, but fails to describe a reasonably identifiable record, is CPRA staff required to assist the individual?

Yes, to the extent determined to be reasonable under the circumstances. Under legislation effective January 1, 2002, when a member of the public makes a request to inspect or obtain a copy of a public record, CPRA staff is to assist the individual in making a focused and effective request that reasonably describes an identifiable record or records, shall do all the following to the extent reasonable under the circumstances:

(i) Assist the individual to identify records and information that are responsive to the request or purpose of the request, if stated;

(ii) Describe information technology and physical location in which the record exists; and

(iii) Provide suggestions for overcoming any practical basis for denyingaccess to the records or information sought. (Gov Code 6253.1)

The requirements are satisfied if CPRA Unit staff are unable to identify the requested information after making a reasonable effort. CPRA Unit staff are not required to aid if the records are made available, the records are expressly exempt from disclosure, or an index of the record is made available. (Gov Code 6253.1(b))

11. What is the time frame for responding to a request for public records?

The Sheriff's Office must respond to a CPRA request no later than 10 days from the date of receipt of the request. (Gov Code 6253 (c))

However, the CPRA cannot be used to delay or obstruct the inspection or the copying of records. Thus, the Sheriff's Office may not arbitrarily wait until the 10th day to provide easily identifiable and disclosable records. The Department should notify the requestor as soon as reasonably possible if a determination can be made sooner. (Gov Code 6253 (d))

Within the 10-day period, the Sheriff's Office must do all the following:

(i) Determine whether the request seeks copies of records subject to disclosure;

(ii) Promptly notify the person of the Department's determination; and

(iii) State reasons for the Department's determination. (Gov Code 6253 (c)

The response will include an estimated cost of providing copies (if any) and may require a deposit or prior payment. (Gov Code 27366; Cal. Pub. Records Research Inc. v County of Yolo, (2016) 4 Cal. App 5th 150)

12. Can the time period to respond be extended?

Yes, but for unusual circumstances. The time to respond with a determination of whether the request seeks copies of disclosable documents may be extended by no more than 14 days. (Gov Code 6253 (c))

When the Sheriff's Office makes the determination that the request seeks disclosable public records, the Sheriff's Office will provide the estimated date and time when the records will be made available. (Gov. Code 6253 (c))

13. What constitutes "unusual circumstances" for extending the time to respond?

"Unusual circumstances" include:

1. the need to search, collect records from multiple Sheriff's facilities,
2. a review a voluminous amount of records,
3. consultation with another agency,
4. to compile data or establish a program to extract data (Gov. Code 6253 (c)(1)-(4))

14. ls the Sheriff's Office required to notify the requesting party in writing of the 14-day extension?

Yes. The CPRA Unit must prepare a written notice setting forth the reasons for the extension and the date on which a determination is expected to be completed. If the Sheriff's Office determines that the request seeks disclosable public records, the written notice shall also include an estimated date when the records will be made available. (Gov. Code 6253 (c))

15. What if the requested records contain both exempt and nonexempt materials?

When the record contains both exempt and nonexempt materials, the nonexempt materials that may be reasonably segregated from the exempt materials are to be disclosed to satisfy the objectives of the CPRA. (Gov. Code 6253(a); Northern Cal. Police Practices Project v. Craig (1979) 90 Cal.App.3d 116, 123-124)

The CPRA Unit will review potentially responsive records to determine whether an exemption may exclude disclosure of the document or whether the document should be redacted prior to disclosure.

16. Can a requester have the records disclosed in electronic format?

Yes, if all the following conditions are met:

(i) the record is subject to disclosure;

(ii)the Department holds the information in electronic format; and

(ii) a release in electronic format does not compromise the security or integrity of the original record or jeopardize the proprietary software in which it is maintained (Gov. Code 6253(d)(1)(B)(2))

17. ls the Sheriff's Office required to provide a copy of the electronic record in the format requested?

Yes, if the Sheriff's Office uses that format to make copies for its own use, or for use by other agencies.

18. Can the Sheriff's Office charge a fee for copies of the records being requested?

Yes. The Sheriff's Office may charge for direct costs of duplication. (Gov. Code 6253(b))

Any estimated costs of providing the copies, will be provided in the written response to the request. Applicable requests may require a deposit or prior payment. When producing electronic records, direct costs of producing the records may be if there are direct costs to construct a record and/or the cost of programming and computer services necessary to produce a copy of the record. (Gov. Code 6253(b))

Fees may apply when the Sheriff's Office would be required to produce a copy of an electronic record and the record is one that is produced only at otherwise regularly scheduled intervals request would require data compilation, extraction, or programming to produce the record. ((Gov. Code 6253(b)(1)); Gov. Code 6253(b)(2); National Lawyers Guild, San Francisco Bay Area Chapter v. City of Hayward et al. (2018) 27 Cal.App.5th 937)

19. Can the Sheriff's Office charge for services in providing copies of records?

Sometimes. Upon the request for a copy of records, the Sheriff's Office is limited to payment

of fees covering the direct cost of duplication which is the direct cost of making the copies. (Gov. Code 6253(b); North Carolina Parents Organization for Children with Special Needs v. Department of Education (1994) 23 Cal.App.41)

Upon the request for electronic records, the requester shall bear the cost of producing a record, including the cost to construct a record, and the cost of programming and computer services necessary to produce a copy, if:

(i) The Department would be required to produce a copy of an electronic record between regularly scheduled intervals of production, or

(ii)Compliance with the request for an electronic record would require data compilation, extraction, or programming in order to produce the record. (Gov. Code 6253.9(b))

20. What if the Sheriff's Office says that it has no records responsive to my request?

The Sheriff's Office has no duty to create a record that does not exist at the time of the

request nor does the Sheriff's Office have a duty to reconstruct a record that was lawfully discarded prior to the receipt of the request. (Gov. Code 6252(e))

Additionally, the Sheriff's Office is not required to create a privilege log or a list that identifies the specific records being withheld. (Haynie v. Superior Court (2001) 26 Cal.4th 1061, 1075)

21. How long must the Sheriff's Office maintain records?

Generally, County records must be retained by local agencies for two years. (Gov. Code 26202) It should be noted that the Sheriff's Office is in possession of many different types of records. The retention period for these records vary and are determined by the County of Riverside Retention Schedule. Once a CPRA request is made, the CPRA Unit will advise the requester if their request is beyond the retention period for the request in question.

22. Where can I find the records retention policy?

The County of Riverside, California Records Retention Schedule form DRRS-SHF-2019-Rev04 lays out the Sheriff's records retention policy. The form is available at the Riverside County Records Office or through a CPRA request to the County of Riverside.

23. On what grounds may a request for public records be denied?

A request for public records may be denied if the CPRA expressly exempts those records from disclosure. Also, the request may also be denied under the balancing test, referred to as the catchall exception. (Gov. Code 6255) Under this test, the Sheriff's Office must determine on a case by case basis, whether the public interest in disclosure is outweighed by the public interest in nondisclosure.

24. Does the CPRA contain a list of state laws that expressly exempts information contained in a record from disclosure?

Yes, there are express exemptions, which are in addition to general exemptions which agencies may assert. The California State legislature declared that after January 1, 1999, each addition or amendment to a statute that exempts any information contained in a public record from disclosure shall be listed in the CRPA. (Government Code Sections 6275-6276.03)

25. ls the Sheriff's Office required to respond to a request for public record in writing?

Yes, if the request for records was in writing and the Sheriff's Office is denying the request in whole or in part. (Gov. Code 6255(b))

26. ls the Sheriff's Office required to state reasons for denying a request for records?

Yes. In their written response, the Sheriff's Office must demonstrate that the record is exempt under express provisions of law, or that based on the facts, the public interest served by withholding the record clearly outweighs the public interest served by disclosure of the record. (Gov. Code 6255(a)(b))

27. Can the Sheriff's Office deny a request based on the purpose of the request?

No. If the records are subject to disclosure and there are no applicable exemptions, the records must be released. (Gov. Code 6257.5)

28. Can the Sheriff's Office file an action for declaratory relief to ask the court to determine whether the records must be disclosed?

No. Pursuant to a California Supreme Court decision, the Sheriff's Office cannot file a declaratory relief action to ask the court to determine whether the Sheriff's Office must disclose the records. (Filarsky v. Superior Court (City of Manhattan Beach) (2002) 28 Cal.4th 419, 121 Cal.Rptr.2d 844; 49 P.3d 194)

The exclusive means for litigating the issue under the CPRA is for the requester to file a court action requesting for injunctive or declaratory relief or writ of mandate to enforce his or her right to inspect or receive a copy of any public record.

29. What if the Sheriff's Office unjustifiably denies a request for a record?

The individual requesting the records may seek a court order. If the court finds the Sheriff's Office improperly withheld disclosure of the records, the requestor may be entitled to court costs and reasonable attorney's fees. (Gov. Code 6258)

30. ls a written communication within the Sheriff's Office in reference to pending or current litigation subject to disclosure?

No, if the written legal communication falls within any exemption or privilege. Communications that are exempt from disclosure are outlined in Government Code 6254 and 6255.

31. Are sections from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office Standards Manual (“DSM”) exempt from disclosure?

Though sections of the Standards Manual (SM) may arguably be exempted under the CPRA, the Sheriff's Office has made the decision to establish a large amount of transparency with the public and has posted Policies and the SM under the Transparency page Manuals and Policies.

32. Is a police report subject to disclosure?

Generally, a police report by number and incident is exempt from disclosure. (Gov. Code 6254(f)) Exemptions and/or potential redactions include records of complaints to, or investigations conducted by the Sheriff's Office, of intelligence information or security procedures of the Sheriff's Office, investigatory or security files compiled by any other local or state police agency, customer lists provided by an alarm or security company and investigatory or security files compiled by any state or local agency for correctional, law enforcement, or licensing. (Supra)

Disclosed records will also be subject to potential redactions if disclosure would constitute an unwarranted invasion of personal privacy. (Cal. Gov. Code 6253(a); American Civ. Liberties Union Found’n v. Deukmejian (1982) 32 Cal.3d 440, 452-454)

Additionally, a general request for all police reports on a particular individual is not disclosable, with certain caveats. (Pen. Code 13300 et seq.)

33. Is a report of an ongoing investigation subject to disclosure?

No, a full report is exempt from disclosure under the CPRA (Numerous exemptions for on-going investigations); however, the Sheriff's Office may disclose certain information related to ongoing investigations. The Sheriff's Office may disclose some information regarding everyone arrested by the agency, unless the disclosure of a particular item of information would endanger the safety of a person involved in an investigation or would endanger the successful completion of the investigation or a related investigation. The Sheriff's Office may also disclose certain information regarding the time, substance, and location of an incident as well as the crimes alleged against an individual and the name and ages of victims, unless, in the case of certain defined crimes, the victim or victim's parent/guardian has requested the victim's information be confidential. Finally, criminal offender records will not be disclosed. (Gov. Code 6254(f); PC13300, 13301)

34. Is a report regarding juvenile subject to disclosure?

Reports regarding a juvenile which could potentially make the juvenile a ward of the court are not to be disclosed for any reason. (T.N.G. v. Superior Court of the City and County of San Francisco (1971) 4 Cal.3d 767; Wescott v. County of Yuba (1980) 104 Cal.App.3d 103)

The party making the request may file a petition with the Juvenile Court pursuant to Welfare and Institutions Code Section 827. The court may order disclosure of some or all the requested information.

35. Will the Sheriff's Office redact any information before it is disclosed?

Yes, the Sheriff's Office will redact information for privacy reasons as allowed by law. Specific exemptions in the CPRA include:

• Certain information such as the addresses, telephone numbers, and names of sexual assault victims, or victims of domestic violence must be redacted from the report before it is disclosed. (Gov. Code 6254(f)(2))
• Additionally, if the disclosure of a particular item of information would endanger the safety of a person involved in an investigation or would endanger the successful completion of the investigation or a related investigation, the information will be redacted. (Gov. Code 6254(f)
• The address and telephone number of the victim or witness of a crime cannot be disclosed to the defendant or a suspect of the crime, except to the defendant's attorney through normal discovery procedures. (Penal Code 841.5)
• Information related to minors may be withheld at the request of the minor's parent or guardian. (Gov. Code 6254 et seq. )
• Juvenile records or information relating to the detention of, or taking of, a minor into custody are subject to release only under certain circumstances. (Welfare & Inst. Code 827 and 828.)
• Information that would violate a person's right to privacy in their medical information is also exempt from disclosure. (Gov. Code 6254(c), (k))

36. Is police body worn camera footage subject to disclosure?

Generally, Body Worn Camera (“BWC”) footage is exempt from disclosure under the CPRA. (Gov. Code 6254 et. seq., Penal Code 832.5, 832.7, 832.8, and Evidence Code 1043, 1046)

In some instances, BWC footage may be released; however, BWC footage is subject to the same potential redactions as other "writings." Absent a valid court order or other statutory authority, body cam videos are subject to the same restrictions as crime reports and other "writings". Such restrictions include, but are not limited to, information such as the addresses, telephone numbers, and names of sexual assault victims, or victims of domestic violence and victims who have requested their information not be disclosed. (Gov. Code 6254(f)(2))

Absent a waiver by the Sheriff's Office, BWC footage will only be released, subject to redactions, in instances where:

• An employee discharges a firearm at someone, or,
• An employee is involved in a Use of Force which causes great bodily injury or death (Senate Bill 1421; PC 832.7, 832.8

Additionally, Assembly Bill 748 (“AB 748”), which amended certain portions of Government Code section 6254, became effective on July 1, 2019. Per AB 748 video and audio recordings that relate to an incident involving the discharge of a firearm at a person or an incident involving the use of force which resulted in great bodily injury or death, by a peace or custodial officer, will be released except in certain circumstances. ((Government Code 6254(f)(4)); (Government Code 6254(f)(4)(C)(i)); (Government Code 6254(f)(4)(C)(ii))))

These circumstances include:

• During an active criminal or administrative investigation, disclosure may be delayed for no longer than 45 calendar days after the agency knew or reasonably should have known about the incident. (Government Code 6254(f)(4)(A)(i))
• If the public interest in withholding a video or audio recording clearly outweighs the public interest in disclosure because disclosure would violate the reasonable expectation of privacy of someone depicted in the recording. The Sheriff's Office may use redaction technology to obscure those portions of the recording to protect the interest. (Government Code 6254(f)(4)(8)(i))
• The recording will be released, either redacted or unredacted, to the subject whose privacy is to be protected, his or her representative, parent or guardian (in the case of a minor), or the heir, beneficiary, designated immediate family member, or authorized legal representative (in the case of a deceased subject).  The recording may be withheld if disclosure would interfere with an active criminal or administrative investigation. (Government Code 6254(f)(4)(B)(iii), Penal Code 832.7(b)(7)(A))
• In cases where there is an ongoing criminal/civil investigation or court process, the records may be withheld until either 30 days after the trial finding/plea or the administrative investigation, whichever is later. (AB 748, Gov. Code 6254(f)(4)(A)(i)-(B)(iii))

37. Is a traffic accident report subject to disclosure?

Traffic accident reports are generally only released to people who were involved in the accident or who have other legitimate interests in the information provided, such as insurance companies. (Vehicle Code 16005)

38. Can information regarding people who hold concealed weapons permits be disclosed?

In general, information relating to individuals who hold Carry Concealed Weapons (“CCW”) permits is disclosable. However, information that may place the permit holder at risk of being a victim of a crime is not to be disclosed, such as the address and reason for the permit. Additionally, information that concerns the applicant's medical or psychological history, or that of members of his or her family, will not be disclosed. (Gov. Code 6254(u)(1)-(3))

39. Is information in a peace officer's personnel file subject to disclosure?

Often employee records are exempt from disclosure, however, in specific situations a record within the overall file may be released outside of a court order. In 2019 and 2022, the California State Legislature mandated the release of applicable portions of a peace officer’s personnel records in cases where:

• A peace or custodial officer who discharged a firearm at a person or used force against a person that resulted in death or great bodily injury. (Pen. Code 832.7(b))
• During an active investigation, disclosure may be delayed for up to 60 days from the occurrence or until the district attorney determines whether to file criminal charges related to the use of force, whichever comes first. (Pen. Code 832.7(b)(7)(A))
• After 60 days, records may be continued to be delayed if the disclosure could reasonably be expected to interfere with a criminal enforcement proceeding/ administrative proceeding against the officer who used force. If such delay takes place, a writing with the specific basis for the delay in disclosure will be provided, at 180-day intervals. The writing will include an estimated date for disclosure of withheld information. (Pen. Code 832.7(b)(7)(A))
• Records of a sustained finding made by a law enforcement agency of an officer engaging in a sexual assault involving a member of the public will be disclosed. (Pen. Code 832.7(b)(1)(B)(i))
• Records of a sustained finding against a peace or custodial officer for dishonesty directly relating to the reporting, investigation, or prosecution of a crime, or directly relating to the reporting of, or investigation of misconduct by, another peace or custodial officer, will be disclosed. (Pen. Code 832. 7(b)(1)(C))
• Records from a separate or prior investigation will not be released unless it is independently subject to disclosure. (Pen. Code 832.7(b)(3))

The Sheriff's Office will redact information where, on the facts of the case, the public interest served by not disclosing the information clearly outweighs the public interest served by the disclosure of the information. (Pen. Code 832.7(b)(6))

40. ls a request for premises history information disclosable (i.e., information regarding criminal activity at an address or addresses)?

The Sheriff's Office would call this type of request a “Calls for Service” request and, in general, this information is subject to disclosure. (Gov. Code 6254)

However, just as in police reports, certain information will be redacted. That information includes certain information such as the addresses, telephone numbers, and names of sexual assault victims, or victims of domestic violence. (Gov. Code 6254(f))

The address and telephone number of the victim or witness of a crime cannot be disclosed to the defendant or a suspect of the crime, except to the defendant's attorney through normal discovery procedures. (Penal Code 841 .5)

Information related to minors may be withheld at the request of the minor's parent or guardian. (Gov. Code 6254; Welfare & Inst. Code 827 and 828)

Information that would violate a person's right to privacy in their medical information is also exempt from disclosure. (Gov. Code 6254 et seq.)

41. ls an individual's criminal history disclosable?

No. This information is not subject to disclosure. It is a misdemeanor to release such information. (Pen. Code 13300 et seq.; Pen. Code 11105 et seq.)

42. Are materials used in training police officers subject to disclosure?

There is no definitive answer. These requests are considered on a case by case basis. The facts must be evaluated based on whether disclosure of the materials may compromise officer safety or tactics and interfere with law enforcement. If the request would do either, the materials are not disclosable. (Gov. Code 6254(p)(2))

43. ls the Arrest Log Information of people who have been arrested by the Sheriff's Office subject to disclosure?

This information is disclosable for scholarly, journalistic, political, governmental, or investigatory purposes only. The person making the request must sign a declaration that the request is for one of those reasons and not for commercial purposes. (Gov. Code 6254(f)(3))

However, in the disclosed record(s), victim information may be redacted and at no time is victim or witness address or telephone number information available to an arrested person or a person who may be a defendant in a criminal action. (Gov. Code 6254(f)(3); Pen. Code 841 .5)

44. Are Sheriff's employees entitled to their personnel files with a request under the CPRA?

Yes, with certain exceptions. Employees may have access to most of their personnel records based simply on their status as employees. Under Labor Code Section 1198.5, an employer must allow employees to inspect their personnel records, including records that were used to determine the qualification for employment, promotion, additional compensation or termination, or other disciplinary action. (Gov. Code 31011)

45. Are Sheriff's employees entitled to inspect records relating to possible criminal investigation or letters of reference?

No. Employees do not have a right to inspect records relating to the investigation of a possible criminal offense, nor may they inspect letters of reference. (Labor Code 1198.5(d)(1)-(2))

46. Is the salary information of Sheriff's employees subject to disclosure?

Yes, the court upheld an order to release the salaries of all public employees without personal identifying information. (Teamsters Local 856 v. Priceless (2003) 112 Cal.App.4th 1500 – Cal. Sup. Ct. denied review and order of depublication)

Teamsters Local 856 v. Priceless was limited to a request for indiscriminate mass disclosure of employee names and salaries. Individual employment contracts for high level local officials are public records pursuant to Government Code Section 6254.8.

47. Are administrative investigations considered public records that are subject to inspection under the CPRA?

Generally, administrative investigations, notes, interviews, findings, etc., are exempt from disclosure under the CPRA. (Gov. Code 6254(a), (c), (f),(k); Gov. Code 6255; Pen. Code 832.5, 832.7, 832.8; and Evid. Code 1043, 1046)

The only exception is those incidents specifically mandated by SB 1421 and SB 16. (For SB 1421, see PC 832.7, 832.8; for SB 16, see Evid. Code 1045, PC 832.5, 832.7, and 832.12-832.13)

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Calling 911

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1. What if I call 911 by accident?

Do not hang up! Stay on the line and tell the dispatcher that everything is all right. If you don’t, the dispatcher may think that something is wrong and send a deputy.

2. What if I use a TTY Machine?

If you use a Text Telephone (TDD, TTY) machine for the deaf, make sure you know the correct way to dial 911 on your machine. After dialing 911, tap several letter keys on the keyboard to alert the dispatcher, and then wait several moments. Repeat this procedure until the dispatcher answers. The Riverside County Sheriff's Office Communications Center has TTY capabilities.

3. What if I speak limited English?

In California, the 911 dispatcher is able to connect you with a translator. Depending on the language spoken, it may take a few moments for the translator service to locate a translator. If you speak limited English or none at all, tell the dispatcher that there is an emergency and which language you speak. There may be a short delay while the dispatcher connects the caller with a translator. Do not hang up.

4. Why is it important to use 911 correctly?

It is difficult at times to reach the 911 dispatcher. One reason this happens is because many people call 911 when there is no emergency. The dispatcher must spend time talking to these people instead of helping others who have real emergencies. That is why it is important to call 911 only when there is a life-threatening emergency.

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Concealed Weapon Permits

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1. What is the time frame to establish residency in Riverside County in order to apply for a CCW license?

There is no particular time frame; however, you must be able to show proof of residency through utility bills, mortgage statements, etc., at the time you apply. Post office boxes or mail stop addresses are not necessarily considered to be sufficient proof of residency.

2. Do I have to fill out the same application to renew my permit?

Yes. You will also need to complete the Sheriff’s Questionnaire and bring additional documentation to your renewal interview. Please see the Renewal Licenses instructions for details.

3. If I live in a city where law enforcement services are provided by another agency, do I need to provide a denial letter from that agency?

No.

4. Do I need to take the safety course prior to setting up an interview?

No.

5. Do I need to get fingerprinted before setting up an interview?

No. The Sheriff's CCW Unit will give you the paperwork to be fingerprinted. This ensures your fingerprints are routed back to the Sheriff's Office for our records.

6. How long does the process take on an initial application?

It can vary greatly. The volume of applications we receive can severely impact the processing time. Other factors that slow the process tend to be incomplete applications and lack of requested documents.

7. What are the reasons for being issued a permit?

This will vary from applicant to applicant. A California Sheriff has broad discretion as provided in Penal Code Section §26150(a) to issue a CCW to those qualified Riverside County citizens that demonstrate "good moral character." These persons are entrusted to carry loaded, concealed firearms into our public places throughout California. Examples of such public places include our roadways, movie theaters, shopping centers and malls, grocery stores, and the like throughout California.

8. How many firearms can I have on the permit?

Six. You must successfully qualify with each of the firearms on the permit.

9. Does the firearm have to be registered to me?

Yes. Firearms must be registered through the Department of Justice to the applicant who is applying for the CCW License.

10. When should I start the process on a renewal?

You should start the process six months before your current permit expires.

11. Should I take any additional training besides the safety class?

It is entirely up to you. You are not required any additional training aside from the state mandated CCW safety course.

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Coroner's Office

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1. Can we come and see him/her?

Any viewing or visitation is done at the mortuary and is not permitted at the forensic facilities.

2. Where is our loved one being taken?

The deceased is being removed to our Perris Forensic Center or Indio Forensic Center, depending on the geographical area where the death occurred.

3. Is an autopsy always performed?

Not always. If the deceased has been under the care of a physician who can provide this office with the medical cause of death, the Sheriff-Coroner may waive the autopsy. In certain cases of natural death where the deceased had no physician, or in the case of a traumatic death where the cause of death is obvious, we may elect to do only an external examination of the body.

4. Why are autopsies performed?

There are a number of reasons autopsies are performed. However, the basic reasons are to determine the medical cause of death and to gather evidence for presentation in a court of law.

5. Does an autopsy prevent viewing of the body at the funeral home?

The autopsy itself is done in such a manner as to allow viewing without seeing evidence of the examination. Length of time since death, the condition of the remains (e.g. major head injury) and the policy of the funeral home determine if viewing the remains can occur. The Coroner's Bureau does not embalm.

6. How long is the body kept at the Coroner's office?

Normally we try to release the decedent to a funeral home within two to three days. Depending on the circumstances of the death, and confirming identification, sometimes it is necessary to keep the remains longer.

7. What do we do now?

In the next day or two, you should select the mortuary or cremation service that you will utilize for final arrangements. If you do not know of one, we suggest using the yellow pages and calling a few. We cannot recommend any to you.

8. What about personal property items?

If the deceased had personal property in his/her possession other than articles of clothing, an appointment must be made in order for the next of kin to obtain the property from us. Please call the bureau in the area where the death occurred. Articles of clothing are only released with the remains to your mortuary.

9. When can we have the funeral?

We make every attempt to complete our initial investigation within 72 hours from the time the death is reported to us. You should not wait to begin making funeral arrangements. The mortuary staff will coordinate the release of the remains with our forensic center.

10. How do we obtain death certificates?

We will complete a portion of the certificate of death to include the date and time of death, place of death and the cause of death. When death is caused by an injury, we provide the injury information. The certificate of death is transferred electronically through the statewide Electronic Death Registration System (EDRS) to the funeral home and their staff completes the document before it is filed with the Health Department.

The funeral home will order as many copies as you may require. The mortuary or cremation service staff will order death certificates for you. The death certificate is issued by the county health department.

11. Can we contact the Coroner's Bureau?

You are welcome to contact us. For non-emergencies and matters that do not require immediate attention, inquires should be made between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m, Monday through Friday. The offices are closed on all county holidays.

12. What if the medical cause of death is not found during the autopsy?

It is not uncommon for this to happen. If the cause of death is listed as "pending", it is because we have to do further testing on tissue and body fluid samples that are retained during the autopsy. This does not delay the release of the body for burial or cremation, however, you can expect that the cause of death will be pending for approximately 12 weeks.

If you are in need of death certificates for legal matters other than life insurance you can order copies with the cause of death pending. Please speak to your mortuary or cremation service staff about ordering them.

13. Are there fees for the Coroner's services?

There is no charge for an autopsy when it is done as part of the Coroner's investigation. Government Code Section 27472 authorizes the Coroner to recover transportation and storage costs.

14. How do we obtain the Coroner's reports (Coroner's Packet)?

Requests for public record information about a decedent (Coroner's Packet) should be made in writing to the Coroner's Office. Send a letter that includes the following:

1. Decedent's name, date of death and Coroner's file number (if known).
2. Include the address where the reports are to be mailed.
3. Include a cashier's check (no personal checks) or money order in the amount of $23 payable to Riverside County Coroner
4. Send your request to:
   Riverside County Sheriff-Coroner
   800 S Redlands Avenue
   Perris, CA 92570

Reports will be mailed as soon as they are ready. Please call our office at 951-443-2300 with any questions.

15. How do the next of kin of a homeless person get notified if a homeless person dies?

It is the responsibility of the Coroner’s Bureau to locate and notify family members on any homeless person’s death regardless of the cause.  In most cases, every reasonable attempt is made to notify family members in person. If a family member lives outside of Riverside County, a request is made to the local coroner/medical examiner or law enforcement agency having jurisdiction where the family lives to respond to their location and notify them of the death.

16. What happens when a body can not be identified?

The Coroner’s Bureau issues unidentified cases a unique “Unidentified” number, which is updated to the decedent’s names when and if the identification is made.  Some cases cannot be identified by forensic or scientific means.  Long term unidentified decedents are referred to the Public Administrator’s Bureau of the Sheriff's Office for disposition of their remains.  Remains of unidentified decedents are buried at a contracted cemetery only after all means to identify the decedent have been explored.  The Coroner’s Bureau publishes information on their website on all long-term unidentified cases.

17. How does the Coroner's Office I.D. an unidentified person?

All deaths of unidentified persons are reported to the Coroner’s Bureau, who will take possession of the decedent for purposes of determining their identity and to locate and notify their legal next-of-kin.  Identification is made by photo comparison, fingerprints, dental charting and comparison, unique physiological or surgical features (prior fractures, surgical implanted devices, skeletal structures), or by DNA analysis.

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COVID-19

Show All Answers

1. What are we doing to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and keep our deputies safe?

The following guidelines are in place to help limit the spread of COVID-19 and have been in place since the national, state and local government identified the practice. All Sheriff's employees must wear a mask, practice social distancing (when practical), have their temperature checked and answer health screening questions before the start of each shift. Current state mandates regarding face coverings allow our patrol, special units, courts, and coroner personnel to use discretion and are not obligated to wear a face covering IF the wearing of the mask creates an immediate risk during their official duties. In addition to all the local guidelines, the Sheriff Office has also authored several Memorandums and Directives to reinforce these practices. Cleaning of all frequently touched surfaces are routinely practiced, such as wiping down workstations, inside patrol vehicles, countertops and equipment. Sheriff's personnel are supplied with personal protective equipment, consisting of latex gloves, N95 masks, level 1 medical masks, and eye protection. Patrol staff responding to calls for service will, when practical, contact reporting parties and/or witnesses by phone to limit exposure of the COVID-19 disease. Calls that can be handled entirely by phone will be handled by a Deputy or Community Service Officer or other Light Duty personnel.

2. What measures are in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in our jails?

Our Jails have undergone extensive measures to assist in helping reduce the spread of COVID-19.

For inmates, the following measures have been put in place at all 5 jail facilities:

• All inmates are pre-screened prior to booking per the Central for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines and are tested for COVID-19.  Inmates are subsequently housed at the hospital, placed in quarantine, observation, or housed according to their classification, per medical staff.
• Staff monitor the movement of inmates who test positive and those who are symptomatic to determine possible exposure and address accordingly.
• All inmate work crews receive temperature checks prior to working in the facility and around food.
• Unlimited soap is provided to all inmates, free of charge.
• A Central for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended cleaning solution is provided to inmates throughout the day and after every meal to sanitize inmate areas.
• Incoming and outgoing inmate mail rests in paper bags prior to handling and processing.
• All meals are served in disposable containers.
• Inmate movement is restricted to only within each facility.
• All inmates were issued cloth masks, which are to be worn at all times when outside of their cells.
• Inmate programs were modified to provide for educational and rehabilitative services without staff contact.
• The dayroom and common areas are sanitized with Central for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) approved cleansers. 
• Inmates receive education on personal hygiene, hand washing, social distancing, and prevention of the spread of the coronavirus via the inmate dedicated channel, which is broadcasted on televisions within every dayroom. This broadcast is presented in both English and Spanish and is audible with a slide show presentation for visual and hearing-impaired inmates.
• Arresting agencies do not enter the facilities when bringing arrestees to jail.
• No non-law enforcement individuals come in contact with inmates.
• The Riverside County Sheriff’s Office and Riverside County partners implemented video court, telehealth, and professional visits via electronic means.
• Inmates have their temperature checked prior to being transported to court. If an inmate has an elevated temperature, the court is notified with the option of rescheduling or modifying the inmate’s court appearance.

For staff, the following measures have been put in place at all 5 jail facilities::

• All staff have their temperature checked prior to entering the facility. Staff with an elevated temperature are not allowed into the facility.
• All staff are issued N-95 masks and the mask must be worn throughout their shift.
• Educational videos were shown demonstrating proper hand washing techniques, and the proper donning and doffing of personal protective gear.
• A PowerPoint presentation, created by Riverside University Health System regarding jail preparedness and prevention, was shown to all staff assigned to the jails.
• All staff were briefed on the California Occupational Safety and Health (CALOSHA) guide on preparing workplaces for COVID-19.
• Central for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended cleaning solutions and cleaning supplies are placed in every work area and are replenished throughout the day.
• Briefings were cancelled to comply with the state order to limit the number of individuals allowed to gather in one place.
• Locker rooms and equipment are cleaned and disenfected routinely. Decontamination routes were established to ensure locker rooms were designated as “clean” locker rooms.
• Pre-screening questions are posted at all entry points into the facilities.  If staff display flu-like symptoms, are otherwise ill, or answer “yes” to any pre-screening question, they are not allowed to enter the facility until further evaluation/guidance from the Department Designated Infection Control Officer (DICO).
• Supervisors monitor their shifts throughout the day and identify staff members who may not feel well.  Staff are sent home if they do not feel well.

3. What precautions are taken in court to protect the public, our employees, and inmates from COVID-19?

The primary role of a deputy sheriff assigned to courts is the security of the court.  In addition to this role, deputy sheriffs assigned to the courts also enforce orders as they relate to court operations and court facilities, issued by the Presiding Judge. The layout of each courtroom varies throughout the county and currently it is the responsibility of the court to address the placement and suitability of where the court wants to place the public, employees, inmates,  furniture, plexiglass and other fixtures within the courtroom. The courts are operated by the State of California, and most of the employees are state employees.  The assigned Sheriff’s Deputies are contracted by the state for courtroom and security.

The Presiding Judge issued an order to address face coverings and physical distancing. Court deputies have been successful in gaining voluntary compliance and will enforce those orders as needed. Social distancing has been in place since the national, state and local government identified the practice, however, enforcement of the “social distancing”  section of the Presiding Judge’s order presents a challenge for deputies assigned to the courts. Staffing levels have been reduced due to fiscal challenges, which in turn, drastically limited the availability of “unassigned” or “rove” deputy sheriffs that may serve a more active role of gaining compliance with this aspect of the court order.

4. Is the Sheriff's Office releasing inmates due to COVID-19?

The Sheriff's Office has not released inmates because they tested positive for COVID-19 or due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

5. How can I donate masks to help prevent the spread of COVID-19?

Donations can be sent  to the Riverside Sheriff’s Emergency Response Team (SERT),  4095 Lemon St. Riverside, CA 92501,  or call 951-955-8441 or 951-955-8478 for more information.

6. Where can I find more information about COVID-19?

The Riverside University Health System-Public Health Department

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention

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Crime Division

Show All Answers

1. How do I find my law enforcement agency?

Visit the Stations page for a comprehensive list of law enforcement agencies in Riverside County.

2. What do I do about loud music, noise or barking dogs?

Call the non-emergency dispatch number for your area for a deputy to be sent to the location.  All numbers for Riverside County are listed on the Who To Call page.

3. My car was stolen, who do I call?

If the car was stolen within the last 15 minutes call 911 emergency dispatch.  If it’s been longer than 15 minutes you should call the non-emergency dispatch number for your area.

4. People are riding off-road vehicles on private property without permission. Who do I call?

The Sheriff’s Off-Highway Vehicle (ROVE) team will investigate complains of illegal off-road activity. You can’t call the team directly because they are patrolling in some of the remotest areas of the county.

Please contact the non-emergency dispatch number for your area to have a deputy sent to the area. If a certain area is repeatedly used for illegal off-road activities, ROVE will be sent out to patrol the area.

You can also use the Report Illegal Off-Road Activity form to send a report to the ROVE team.

5. What should I do if I see a stray dog?

It depends on what the dog is doing.

If the dog is:

• Causing a traffic hazard, call 911
• Running loose on street (no hazard), call County Animal Control 951-358-7387
• Vicious or threatening, call 911

6. What are the operating hours for the Sheriff's Station's front counters?

Generally speaking, Sheriff's Station front counters are open to the public during normal business hours from 8 AM to 5 PM. You should call first to be sure of the station's operating hours. Please use the station lookup tool to find the agency you wish to contact.

7. Can I talk to an officer or detective at the front counter?

Officers and detectives are not assigned to the front counters. In cases of emergencies an officer will be dispatched to the location. It is highly recommended to make an appointment if you need to speak with a detective.

8. Can I make a report over the phone?

Sheriff's Dispatch handles non-emergency reports that are primarily for documentation purposes. Assault or other violent crime reports cannot be reported over the phone. These calls must be handled by deputies. Use the Who to Call page to find the dispatch number for your area. You may also come into any of the Sheriff's stations to file these types of reports.

9. Can I make a report using my computer?

Yes, you may use the Sheriff's online crime report form for non-emergency crimes.  Auto thefts cannot be reported using this form.

10. How do I file a commendation or complaint against the Sheriff's Office?

Please follow the instructions on our Commendations and Complaints page.

11. Who can get a copy of a report?

Copies of Crime/Accident Reports are released in accordance with Section 6254 of the California Government Code. These reports are considered to be confidential and are generally releasable to “interested parties” (as defined by applicable State codes) or court order.

You can request a copy of a report from the Sheriff’s station that wrote the report, or responded to the incident. If within 14 days of the incident, please contact the handling station to confirm the report is available.

You may also request a copy of a report via mail or by contacting the Information Services Bureau.

A valid, government issued photo identification card (i.e., driver’s license, passport, military id) must be presented if request is submitted in person, or a copy of the ID must be enclosed if the request is submitted by mail.

Fees, if applicable, must be paid before copies of the reports are released.

12. Does the Sheriff's Office provide fingerprinting services to the public?

The Live Scan Fingerprint Index provides information on locations, fees, and hours of operation for fingerprinting services in your area.

13. My vehicle was towed, how do I find out where it is and how to get it back?

There is an administrative fee for the release of vehicles towed for parking violations, expired registration, safekeeping etc. The registered owner of the vehicle will need to come to the Sheriff's Office Front Counter to obtain a Vehicle Release Form to present to the storage yard.

Required Documents

The owner must have a valid driver's license or a person with them who does, and the vehicle registration must be current. In the event the registered owner cannot be present, the Sheriff's Office will accept a notarized letter authorizing a person designated in the notarized letter to claim the vehicle. In the event the owner is in jail, a signature from the Deputy or other official representative from the jail will be accepted provided there is a name and phone number for that individual provided so we can confirm it's authenticity.

14. Can I pay for a parking ticket online?

The pticket website offers online ticket payment for some communities in Riverside county.

15. Is there a charge to have a Sheriff's Deputy appear as a witness in a court?

Yes, a fee is charged if a deputy is subpoenaed to appear in a civil or federal case.

View the View Sheriff-Coroner Schedule of Fees (PDF).

16. What do I do if I want to evict somebody from a rental property?

Use the Court Services page for information on evictions.

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Full Time Supervised Electronic Confinement Program

Show All Answers

1. How does the program work?

You must wear a transmitter on your ankle. You will be eligible for time outside of your home on two days a week from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Additional time may be given for work or school if you provide required documentation.

2. What are the requirements?

Pending approval, each applicant will be required to:

• Meet eligibility requirements (residency, equipment, etc.)
• Provide a current telephone bill, most recent pay stub, and proof of enrollment in alcohol, drug, and/or counseling programs (if applicable).

3. How can I apply?

If you feel you can meet the terms and conditions briefly outlined here and would like to be considered for this program, you need to fill out the application.

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Part Time Supervised Electronic Confinement Program

Show All Answers

1. How does the program work?

You must wear a transmitter on your ankle 24 hours a day, and spend a minimum of 12 hours per day inside of your house. Depending on your employment status, you will be given 8 to 12 hours of “free time” everyday to work and take care of personal business.

2. How much does it cost?

Costs associated with the program are determined on an individual case-by-case basis. It is based on a percentage of your income - 1.1% of your gross income.

If your hourly wage is, your daily fee is:

• $7: $8
• $9: $10
• $11: $12
• $10: $10
• $10: $11
• $12: $13
• $13: $14
• $14: $15
• $15: $17
• $20: $22
• $25: $28
• $30 $33

3. What are the requirements?

Pending approval, each applicant will be required to:

• Meet eligibility requirements (residency, equipment, etc.)
• Provide a picture ID, current telephone bill, most recent pay stub, and proof of enrollment in alcohol, drug, and/or counseling programs (if applicable).

4. How can I apply?

If you feel you can meet the terms and conditions briefly outlined here and would like to be considered for this program, you need to fill out the application.

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Secure Deposit

Show All Answers

1. How do I use Access Corrections Deposit Services?

Inmate deposits can be added to a resident’s account via internet, telephone or lobby kiosk at the facility. To make an inmate deposit via internet, customers must register online and accept the Access Corrections Terms and Conditions. An inmate deposit cannot be completed unless a profile has been established and the Terms and Conditions have been accepted.

2. Why can't I make a deposit to an active inmate?

Sometimes, active inmates are restricted from certain types of services. This could be due to a request from the facility or it could be because they received deposits that were denied by the cardholder. In such a case, the inmate will no longer be able to receive credit card or walk-in deposits. If this is the case, the inmate's full deposit privileges can be reinstated if a depositor repays the full amount of the denied transaction. This can be done by sending a Money Order, along with the inmate's name, inmate number, and agency to:
Access Corrections Account Re-Instatement Department
Attention Business Manager
P.O Box 12486
St. Louis, MO 63132

3. Can I place an order for the inmate using money I added to their account?

No. Orders placed using funds from an inmate's account must be paid with a facility check and mailed directly from the facility. The use of funds deposited to an inmate’s account is restricted to use specified by the facility.

4. Why can’t I add money online without establishing a profile?

By law, Access Corrections is required to collect certain information from each customer before a transaction can be processed. Please be sure your Access Corrections profile is updated with your most current information.

5. What types of payment does Access Corrections accept?

Acceptable payment methods for inmate deposits are credit and debit cards with Visa or MasterCard logos and a valid security code that are United States Issued. Please note that Access Corrections does not accept Government issued cards (i.e. Child Support Cards, EBT Cards, etc).

6. What is the security code?

The security code is the last three numbers on the back of your credit or debit card, typically located in the white strip where your signature is located.

7. Can I send cash?

Cash transactions for inmate deposits are only accepted at Access Secure Deposits lobby kiosk locations. Kiosks will not accept coins or $1 bills. Kiosks will not make change for large bills.

8. Are the kiosks accessible to people with disabilities?

Yes.

9. Are the kiosks bi-lingual (English/Spanish)?

Yes.

10. Can I send money to more than one inmate?

Yes. You can add or delete inmates in your profile at anytime.

11. When will my credit card be debited?

Usually within three banking days. This does not delay the inmate's deposit.

12. When will the inmate receive the money?

Once the transaction is complete and you receive your receipt number, the inmate will receive the money in his or her account within 5 to 10 minutes.

13. Is there a fee to use the Access Secure Deposits service?

Access Corrections charges a service fee, per transaction, based on the amount of money added to a resident’s account. Some facilities impose an additional fee to add money to an inmate’s account.

14. Do I need to add the transaction fee to the amount I am sending?

No. You will be charged the payment amount plus the applicable transaction fee. You have the opportunity to view and approve the total amount you will be charged before Access Corrections actually charges your card.

15. How do I know if my transaction went through?

The receipt number indicates that the payment has been processed. The payment will be “pending” on your card account until the funds are deposited to the inmate’s account. The payment will appear as “sent” once the money has been deposited to the inmate’s account.

16. Why do I still have an authorization on my card if my payment failed?

When your transaction was processed, your card was authorized immediately for the amount of your deposit. Funds from unsuccessful payments are credited back to your card within three banking days.

17. Can I see pending or past payments?

Yes, all payments made using the online service will show a detailed transaction history.

18. Can I see a recipient’s inmate trust account history?

No, we do not have access to the facilities inmate trust account; we can only verify payment you have made to the inmate.

19. How much money can I deposit into an account?

An inmate’s account balance shall not exceed $200.00, except:

• Upon approval of a supervisor.
• At time of booking/transfer.
• Upon receipt of Inmate payroll or government issued checks

If the account balance will exceed $200.00, the U.S. Postal money order will be returned to the depositor.

Personal checks or cash received via U.S. Mail will be returned to the sender. 

20. When an inmate is released are unused funds returned to him/her?

Yes. Unclaimed funds will go into the Sheriff's Office Unclaimed Money fund and the inmate will need to file a claim to recover it.

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Sheriff's Retirees

Show All Answers

1. Who do I contact regarding retirement badges?

Please email the RSO retirees administrator.

2. My ID card is faded, how do I get a replacement?

Make a request using the Retiree Update Form or contact Sheriff's Administration at 951-955-2400. Keep in mind that the old card will need to be collected before a replacement can be issued. Arrangements for out-of-state retirees will need to be made with Sheriff's Administration.

3. My ID card was lost or stolen. How do I get it replaced?

You will need to file a lost property report with your local law enforcement agency. If you live in Riverside County, you can submit an online Property Crime Report or you can call a Sheriff’s non-emergency phone number to make a report.

Once a report number has been generated, you will need to request a new ID card through the Retiree Update Form or by calling Sheriff’s Administration at 951-955-2400.

4. I'm from out-of–state and my Retired ID card has expired. How do I renew it?

Submit a request using the Retiree Update Form. For HR218 and CCW Retired ID cards please contact the CCW Unit at 951-486-2856 or 951-486-2816.

5. How do I update my Retired Sheriff ID card?

Submit a request using the Retiree Update Form. If the ID card has a CCW endorsement on it please contact the CCW Unit at: 951-486-2856 or 951-486-2816.

6. My plastic ID holder is broken, how do I get a new one?

Please email the RSO retirees administrator for a new plastic ID holder.

7. How do I schedule my yearly range qualification?

If you live in Riverside County, contact the Sheriff's CCW unit at 951-486-2856 to schedule a time.  If you live outside of Riverside County or out of state, contact a shooting range in your county of residence. If you have any questions, please call the Riverside County Sheriff's CCW Unit for assistance.              

8. How do I contact another retiree?

The Sheriff's Office cannot give out personal information for any current or former employee. To contact a current employee, Sheriff's Administration can only give out the general station phone number for where that person is assigned.

You can also join the Retired RCSD Yahoo group to stay in touch with other retirees.

Message Board

You must first join Yahoo Groups, which is free. Establish an ID and password, then go to the Retired Group (retiredrcsd) and request to join.

Signing up with Yahoo once enables you to join as many groups as you wish. Please follow these instructions:

1) Sign up with Yahoo and fill out the fields marked with an asterisk (*).
1) After you have joined, go to the message board.
3) Click the button that says "Join This Group" and follow the directions. When filling out this form, please give your name and retirement year even though it does not ask for this information.

9. How can I view or obtain copies of documents from my background and/or personnel file?

Documents in a background file can only be obtained by chain of command approval, starting with the Sheriff's Admin Lieutenant at 951-955-2400 or by subpoena.

10. How do I get my email on the retiree email distributions?

Please email the RSO retirees administrator to get added to the retiree email list.

11. Who can sign up to receive DMV Confidentiality of Home Address?

Only retired sworn personnel can receive DMV Confidentiality of Home Address for life; all other classifications will have their DMV Confidentiality terminated upon leaving the Sheriff's Office but it may take up to 3 years to take effect in the DMV database. If you are requesting to receive a form in the mail, request it through the Retiree Update Form.

12. Who do I contact for benefits?

For benefit questions please call the Riverside County Benefit Information Line at 951-955-4981 or email the Benefits Information Line. Additional benefits information can be found at the Riverside Sheriffs’ Association website.

13. What is the phone number for Riverside Sheriffs Association (RSA)?

The phone number to the RSA is 951-653-5152.

14. I'd like to volunteer, who should I call?

Volunteers are managed by Sheriff's station volunteer coordinators.  Visit the Sheriff's Volunteer page to find the phone number for your station area.

15. How can I donate to the RSO museum?

You can email the Sheriff Museum for more information on donations.

16. What support organizations exist to help retirees?

CalPERS

CalPERS - California Public Employees' Retirement System provides retirement, health, and related financial programs and benefits to more than 1.6 million public employees, retirees, and their families and more than 2,500 public employers.

RSA Benefits

With RSA Benefits Trust, you can meet the Trustees and find information about our healthcare providers, including rate comparisons.

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Unclaimed Money

Show All Answers

1. How do I find out if I have unclaimed money?

Review the Listing of Unclaimed Money (PDF)

2. Is there a time limit for claiming my property?

Yes, there is a time limit for filing a claim. Deadline is stated at the top of the Listing of Unclaimed Money (PDF).

3. How do I submit a claim?

The Unclaimed Money Form (PDF) can be printed, you may obtain one from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office located at:
4095 Lemon Street
3rd Floor
Riverside, CA 92501
Phone: 951-955-8922

Hours:
Monday through Thursday
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Friday
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

4. How does the claim process work?

If your name or the name of a deceased family member is listed, and you are the administrator of the descendants estate, or business is listed on the List of Unclaimed Money (PDF) and you would like to make a claim for what you believe is money held by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Office, download the Unclaimed Money Form (PDF).

Fill out the form, print it, sign it, then attach the required documentation and mail it to:

Riverside County Sheriff

ATTN: Accounting & Finance - Unclaimed Money P.O. BOX 512

RIVERSIDE, CA 92501

Once your package is received with all the required documentation, it will be reviewed. Please do not inquire on the status of your claim unless it has been over 60 days from the date you mailed your package. Such calls will only delay disbursements.

5. What is a property identification number?

Every unclaimed property item has an identification number assigned by our office. This number can be found in our Listing of Unclaimed Money (PDF). The property identification number is identified in the Property Identification column. You will need this number whenever you contact us regarding your claim. Our office recommends that each claimant keep this number until the claim has been processed.

6. Does the Sheriff's listing of unclaimed money include real estate property?

No, it does not include real estate property. This includes unclaimed estate property from the Sheriff's Public Administrator's Bureau.

7. What if I have additional questions?

You may direct all inquiries by emailing Unclaimed Money and reference the Property Identification number.

8. What can I do if my claim is rejected?

If rejected, the party who submitted the claim may file a verified complaint seeking to recover all, or a designated part, of the money in a court of competent jurisdiction within the County of Riverside. A copy of the complaint and summons issued thereon must be served to the Sheriff within thirty days of the notice of rejection. The Sheriff shall then withhold the release of the portion of unclaimed money for which the court action has been filed, pending final decision of the court.

9. Once approved, how long will it take to receive the money?

All claims will be reviewed and processed within 60 days from receipt of a completed claim package. Claims will be evaluated for validity and approved or rejected by the Sheriff's Accounting and Finance Unit. Once approved, it may take six to eight weeks to receive a county warrant reimbursement.

10. Can my funds be electronically transferred to my current bank account?

No, the Sheriff cannot transfer your unclaimed property funds to your current bank account.

11. If I have had a name change, what kind of documents will be accepted as proof to claim property associated with my former name?

You will need to establish that you are the person whose name appears on the account. Examples of documents that can be used to prove your former name are listed:

• Adoption papers
• Amended birth certificate
• Citizenship documents
• Court document identifying the name change
• Divorce decree
• Driver's license
• Marriage certificate
• Passport
• Social Security Card

12. Can I submit a claim online?

No, claims must either be submitted by mail or can be dropped off at the counter of the Sheriff's office located at:
4095 Lemon Street
3rd floor
Riverside, CA 92501
Phone: 951-955-8922

Hours:
Monday through Thursday
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Friday
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

13. What type of documentation must I submit with my claim?

You must submit a copy of a current government-issued photo identification along with any other documentation that will support your claim. If you are submitting a claim on behalf of a business, please include a business card and a notarized affidavit.

14. Do I need to submit a separate claim form for each item I want to claim?

Yes, each unclaimed money form is specific to a unique Property Identification.

15. Where do I send my claim form?

Please send your claim form to:
Riverside County Sheriff
Attention Accounting and Finance - Unclaimed Money
P.O. Box 512
Riverside, CA 92502
Phone: 951-955-8922

16. Will I be notified of my claim's status?

Once your package is received with all the required documentation, it will be reviewed. If the documentation is not adequate to prove your ownership, our office will send you a letter stating why the claim is incomplete. All submitted documents will be returned at this time. Please do not inquire on the status of your claim unless it has been over 60 days from the date you mailed your package.