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1. What is the application process for a pistol permit?

If you are resident of Coventry, you can come to the police department and pick up a permit application from the Records office. Applicants must be fingerprinted and a background check will be conducted. The process can take up to several months.

2. Where can I get fingerprinted?

Fingerprints for applicants for permits and certain types of licenses are done at the Police Department on Wednesdays from 9 AM to 11 AM and Saturdays from 9 AM to noon. Please bring an official identification. The fingerprinting fee for residents is $10.00 and $20.00 for non-residents. A check or the exact amount in cash is required.

3. How do I obtain a copy of a police report?

You can write or come to the police department to request a copy of a report. Most reports are public information but some cannot be released or must have information redacted pursuant to Freedom of Information laws. Having the police case number or specific date of the incident will assist in fulfilling your request more quickly. Copies of reports are $.50 per page. In-person requests should be made during business hours when the Records Clerk is on duty which is Mon-Fri 8 AM to 4 PM. Accident reports are available online through a commercial site for an additional service charge. This fee does not apply if you come to the police department for the report. online accident reports

4. How many police officers are there?

There are sixteen police officers including the chief and all supervisors. The sworn staff works varying shifts and days in order to provide 24 hour 365 day a year coverage. In addition, there are five non-sworn staff consisting of the executive assistant/accreditation manger, the community service/animal control officer and three full time dispatchers. The department also employs a number of part-time dispatchers who fill in on weekends and holidays. Our lake patrol officer is a part-time position during the boating season.

5. How do I file a complaint about an officer or other employee of the department?

We expect all of our personnel to be courteous, fair and professional. Occasionally however, you may feel that an officer or dispatcher has not handled a situation to your satisfaction. Sometimes issues can be resolved by speaking with a supervisor who might address the issue by explaining department protocols or general law enforcement procedures. If the situation is more serious, you may file a complaint in person, over the phone or anonymously. The complaint can be investigated more thoroughly if you provide detailed information. You should ask to speak with a supervisor to file the complaint. If you come in person, you will be given a receipt that you have filed a complaint. If the complaint is against a supervisor, you may contact the chief directly. If the allegations are serious, an internal investigation may be ordered. Complaints that are less serious may be handled directly be a supervisor. You will notified in writing of the outcome of the complaint. A complaint form is available here.             Spanish version is here.