Deland Police Department Records serve as the official source for criminal reports, arrest logs, incident data, and public safety information in DeLand, Florida. Managed by Chief Jason D. Umberger and headquartered at 219 West Howry Avenue, DeLand, FL 32720, the department ensures transparency through accessible records while protecting privacy and legal compliance. Residents, researchers, attorneys, and journalists rely on these records for background checks, legal proceedings, community awareness, and personal safety. The department operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with dedicated lines for general inquiries (386-626-7400) and records requests (386-740-6842). Secure email communication is available via the city’s protected system. All records follow Florida’s public records laws, ensuring timely access with minimal fees and clear procedures.
How to Request Deland Police Department Records
Anyone can request Deland Police Department Records through in-person visits, mailed letters, or electronic submissions. The City Clerk’s Office oversees all public records requests, ensuring compliance with Florida Statute 119. Requests must include your name, contact details, and a clear description of the records needed. The Custodian of Records reviews each submission and responds within two to five business days. Copying fees are low, usually based on page count or digital file size. Urgent requests may be prioritized, but complex cases could take longer. Always confirm receipt of your request and ask for a tracking number. For fastest service, use the online portal or visit the headquarters during business hours.
Types of Records Available from the Deland Police Department
The Deland Police Department provides several key record types. These include incident reports, arrest logs, accident reports, mugshots, and criminal history summaries. Incident reports detail crimes like theft, vandalism, or disturbances. Arrest logs show names, charges, booking dates, and release status. Accident reports cover vehicle collisions investigated by officers. Mugshots are released only if the person was charged and booked. Some records may be redacted to protect victims, minors, or ongoing investigations. Not all data is public—certain files fall under exemptions in state law. Always verify what’s releasable before submitting a request.
Online Access to Deland Police Records
Residents can access many Deland Police Department Records online through official portals. The CrimeWatch site offers real-time crime maps, recent arrests, and tip submissions. Users can search by date, location, or case number. The department’s records archive includes searchable logs dating back to 2015. This database features auto accident reports, incident summaries, and public comments. Third-party sites like RecordsFinder and PoliceDept.us also host copies, but always cross-check with official sources for accuracy. Online tools reduce wait times and allow 24/7 access. However, sensitive details may be limited compared to full paper files.
Crime Statistics and Annual Reports
In 2017, the Deland Police Department recorded 1,313 arrests across the city. That year, the overall crime rate was 405.17 per 1,000 residents. Violent crimes occurred at a rate of 56.78 per 1,000 people, while property crimes reached 348.39 per 1,000. These numbers reflect trends in theft, assault, burglary, and motor vehicle incidents. The department publishes annual summaries showing changes over time. Comparing yearly data helps identify hotspots and measure policing effectiveness. Crime rates influence local policies, school programs, and neighborhood watch efforts. Updated stats are shared via the CrimeWatch portal and city council meetings.
CrimeWatch Portal: Tips, Maps, and Alerts
The official CrimeWatch portal for DeLand lets residents submit anonymous tips, view live crime maps, and read department updates. Chief Jason D. Umberger uses this platform to share safety alerts and community news. Users can search recent incidents by address or date range. The map highlights burglaries, assaults, and traffic stops across Volusia County. Tip submissions go directly to detectives and remain confidential. The site also lists command staff, including Deputy Chief Adam Kisthardt and Captains Prurince Dice and Francisco Williams. This tool strengthens community-police cooperation and improves response times.
Arrest Logs and Mugshot Availability
Arrest logs are updated regularly on the CrimeWatch site and include names, charges, booking times, and jail status. Mugshots appear only after formal charges and processing. Not all arrests result in public photos—some cases are sealed or expunged. Juvenile records are never published. Adults can request their own arrest details or those of others with proper authorization. Law enforcement uses these logs for investigations and court preparation. Media outlets often cite them for news reports. Always verify current status, as charges may be dropped or reduced later.
Accident and Traffic Reports
Auto accident reports are available through the Deland Police Department Records archive. These documents describe collision details, involved parties, injuries, and officer conclusions. Drivers involved in crashes can request copies for insurance claims. Reports are typically ready within 3–5 days. For major accidents, the Volusia Sheriff’s Office may assist with documentation. Traffic citations and DUI records are also part of public files. Some reports include diagrams or photos, but these may require special permission. Always bring a valid ID when requesting your own records.
Warrant Information and Background Checks
The Deland Police Department does not publish active warrant lists online due to safety and legal concerns. However, individuals can inquire about their own status by visiting headquarters or calling (386) 740-5875. Background checks require a formal request and may involve fingerprinting. Employers, landlords, and licensing agencies often need certified reports. These checks show arrests, convictions, and pending cases within city limits. County-wide searches may require contacting the Volusia Sheriff’s Office. Processing takes 2–7 days depending on complexity.
Fees, Timelines, and Processing Rules
Copying Deland Police Department Records costs a small fee per page or digital file. Typical charges range from $0.15 to $0.25 per page. Large requests may incur labor fees if staff time exceeds 15 minutes. Most standard requests are fulfilled in 2–5 business days. Rush orders cost extra. Denials must include a written explanation citing Florida law. If denied, you can appeal to the City Clerk or file a complaint with the Florida Ombudsman. Always keep copies of your request and response for your records.
Role of the Custodian of Records
The Custodian of Records supervises all public data releases from the Deland Police Department. This role ensures compliance with Florida’s Sunshine Law and protects sensitive information. The custodian reviews each request, redacts protected content, and approves final documents. They also train staff on privacy rules and respond to legal challenges. Contact the City Clerk’s Office to reach the current custodian. Their decisions can be appealed if you believe records were wrongly withheld. Transparency is a core value, but balance is needed to safeguard victims and investigations.
Department Structure and Community Outreach
One police department serves all 10,105 residents across six square miles in DeLand. This places the city at rank 146 among Florida municipalities for police per capita. The force includes patrol officers, detectives, school resource officers, and a community liaison team. Outreach programs focus on youth education, neighborhood safety walks, and crisis intervention training. Officers partner with local schools, churches, and nonprofits. These efforts build trust and reduce crime long-term. The department’s mission emphasizes prevention, not just enforcement.
Historical Data and Archive Access
The Deland Police Department Records archive holds data from 2015 onward. Users can search past incidents, accidents, and arrests by keyword or date. Older files may be stored offsite and require advance notice. The archive supports research, journalism, and legal discovery. It also hosts public comment forms for community feedback. All materials comply with state retention schedules. Some records are digitized; others remain in physical form. Plan ahead if you need pre-2015 information.
Third-Party Sites vs. Official Sources
Websites like RecordsFinder, CountyOffice.org, and PoliceDept.us list Deland Police Department Records, but they are not official. These sites compile data from public feeds but may contain errors or outdated info. Always verify details with the city’s direct portals. Third-party services sometimes charge high fees for free public data. Use them cautiously and prioritize .gov or .org sources. The official CrimeWatch and city clerk pages are most reliable.
Volusia County Sheriff’s Office Collaboration
The Volusia Sheriff’s Office handles county-wide reports, including traffic crashes outside city limits. Their Records Section manages sealing and expungement requests. For incidents near DeLand’s border, both agencies may respond. Call (386) 736-5962 to request sheriff reports. This coordination ensures seamless service for residents. Some Deland cases are forwarded to the sheriff for prosecution. Always confirm which agency holds your specific record.
Privacy, Redaction, and Legal Limits
Not all Deland Police Department Records are fully public. Florida law allows redaction of victim identities, medical info, juvenile names, and ongoing investigation details. Officers may withhold photos or statements if release harms a case. You can challenge redactions by requesting a review. Courts decide final disputes. Always respect privacy when sharing records. Misuse of data can lead to legal penalties.
Emergency Contacts and Non-Record Services
For emergencies, call 911 immediately. Non-emergency police assistance uses (386) 626-7400. Records requests go to (386) 740-6842. Fax documents to (386) 740-6842. Email uses the city’s secure system—avoid regular email for sensitive topics. Walk-in visits are welcome Monday–Friday, 8 AM–5 PM. Allow extra time for large requests. Staff will guide you through forms and fees.
Frequently Asked Questions About Deland Police Department Records
People often ask how to get records fast, whether mugshots are public, and if background checks include county data. Others want to know about fees, redactions, and online tools. Below are detailed answers to the most common questions based on current policies and Florida law.
How long does it take to receive Deland Police Department Records?
Most standard requests are processed within two to five business days. Simple files like accident reports may be ready in 24 hours. Complex cases involving many pages or redactions can take up to ten days. Rush service is available for an extra fee. Always submit requests early if you need records for court or travel. Delays happen during holidays or high-volume periods. Follow up by phone if you don’t hear back in three days.
Can I view someone else’s arrest record from DeLand?
Yes, adult arrest records are public unless sealed by a judge. You don’t need a reason to request them. Submit a form with the person’s full name, date of birth, and approximate arrest date. Juvenile records are never public. If the person was not charged, details may be limited. Some third-party sites post arrest logs, but verify with official sources. Never use this information to harass or discriminate.
Are mugshots automatically released after an arrest?
Mugshots are only released if the person was formally charged and booked into jail. Not all arrests lead to charges. Photos may be withheld if they could endanger someone or interfere with an investigation. Once released, mugshots appear on CrimeWatch and may be picked up by media. You can request a copy through the records office. Expunged or dismissed cases remove photos from public view.
Do I need to pay for Deland Police Department Records?
Yes, there is a small fee for copies—usually 15 to 25 cents per page. Digital files may cost less. No fee is charged for viewing records in person. Large requests requiring staff time beyond 15 minutes add labor costs. Waivers are rare but possible for nonprofit or journalistic use. Pay by cash, check, or card at the office. Online payments are not yet available.
Where can I find crime maps and real-time data for DeLand?
Use the official CrimeWatch portal at volusia.crimewatchfl.com/delandpd. It shows recent incidents, arrests, and tip options. Maps update daily and let you search by neighborhood or crime type. The site also posts alerts from Chief Umberger. For historical trends, check the department’s annual reports or contact the records office. Avoid unofficial apps—they may show outdated or incorrect info.
Can I request my own criminal background check from DeLand PD?
Yes, you can request a personal background check showing arrests and dispositions within city limits. Bring a valid photo ID to 219 West Howry Avenue. The report covers only DeLand cases—county or state records require other agencies. Processing takes 2–5 days. Some employers need certified copies with an official seal. There is a fee for certification. If errors appear, file a correction request with supporting documents.
What happens if my records request is denied?
If denied, the Custodian of Records must explain why in writing, citing Florida Statute 119. Common reasons include ongoing investigations, privacy protections, or incomplete requests. You can appeal to the City Clerk within 30 days. If unresolved, contact the Florida Division of Library and Information Services or consult a lawyer. Most denials are overturned with clearer wording or additional details.
Official Website: delandpd.org
Phone: (386) 626-7400 (General) | (386) 740-6842 (Records)
Address: 219 West Howry Avenue, DeLand, FL 32720
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM