When should I use 9-1-1?

9-1-1 should be used in emergency situations only, where immediate police, fire, or medical assistance is needed. Examples of this are crimes in progress, crashes with injuries or life threatening situations. The non-emergency number 863.291.5858 should be used for all other calls for services.

Back to top

What are the Police Department's hours?

The Police Department is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. However, the lobby of the department is open only from Monday through Friday, 7 am to 6 pm (excluding holidays). If assistance is required other than these times, there is a call box located at the main entrance door.

Back to top

How can I get my fingerprints taken?

Fingerprinting is conducted on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm.  The charge is $5 per card and you must bring the card(s).

Back to top

How do I get a copy of a police report or crash report?

Police reports can be obtained in person at the Records window in the Police Department facility. Reports are usually available 24 hours after the incident. There is a 15 cent charge per page; double-sided copies cost 20 cents each.

Back to top

How do I get an officer to check my house while I’m on vacation?

Special Patrol is available to those residents or businesses requesting extra patrol for a specified period of time.  To request this service contact the Communications Center at 863.291.5858.  Required information will be requested which will be disseminated to the Patrol Division.
 

Back to top

How do I find out the crime rate for Winter Haven?

Back to top
 

Where can I find the City of Winter Haven's Ordinances or Florida State Statutes?

Both the City Ordinances and State Statutes can be researched and viewed online. The City of Winter Haven ordinances can be accessed here and the Florida State Statutes here.

Back to top

Because of the potential for damage to vehicles, the Winter Haven Police Department no longer opens locked vehicles. A locksmith, tow company or Pop-A-Lock is your best alternative. If a child is locked inside the vehicle, the Police and Fire Departments will respond to remove the child from the vehicle by whatever means necessary.

Back to top

What can I do about speeders in my neighborhood?

If you are having a problem in your neighborhood with speeding vehicles, contact the Traffic Division at 863.291.5858.

Back to top
 

What do I do if I am involved in traffic crash?

If you are involved in a traffic crash you should first stop and check if there are any injuries and then remain at the scene. If possible you should then move the vehicles off the roadway to allow traffic to flow; there is NO law in Florida that prohibits you from moving your vehicle out of the roadway after a crash. If the crash involves injury, a drunk driver, a hit and run with suspect information, or if your vehicle is disabled requiring a tow, you need to notify the police immediately.

If you are involved in a crash with total damage to any vehicle or other property in an apparent amount of at least $500, there are no injuries, and vehicles are drivable, you are still required to notify the appropriate law enforcement agency. If the total damage is less than $500, it is not necessary to report the accident, however, you should exchange driver information among the parties involved in the accident. This information should include; your driver's license, current vehicle registration and current proof of insurance.  

Back to top

Back to top

 

Contact Crime Prevention Specialist Amanda Miller at 863.291.5704.

Back to top
 

How do I start a neighborhood watch program?

Information on how to start a Neighborhood Watch program can be found here.  Contact Crime Prevention Specialist Amanda Miller at 863.291.5704 for more information. 

Back to top

Contact Sergeant Eileen McNamee of Internal Affairs at 863.291.5734 or ask to see the on-duty watch inspector at the Police Department for required paperwork to be completed.  Complaint forms may also be picked up at the Records Department window in the lobby.

Back to top

You may fill out an online form here.

If you would like to see about conducting a ride along with one of our officers, contact the on-duty watch inspector at 863.291.5858 or Deputy Chief Buddy Waters at 863.291.5874.  Citizens who wish to ride with an officer must complete a form and are subject to a background check.  The Department has the right to refuse any request.

Back to top

How do I hire an officer off-duty for a function?

All requests for off-duty employment are made through Sergeant Eileen McNamee.  Please contact her at 863.291.5734 or email her at emcnamee@mywinterhaven.com.


Back to top