How to Contact and Work With the Lexington Police Department
What the Lexington Police Department does and how to reach them
The Lexington Police Department serves Lexington, South Carolina, and handles law enforcement for the city. You can reach them by calling 803-835-1400 for non-emergency matters, or 911 for emergencies. The department's main office is located at 200 South Lake Drive in Lexington.
The department responds to crimes, investigates incidents, manages traffic enforcement, and handles community policing programs. If you need to report a crime that is not currently happening, file a report about a past incident, or ask questions about police services, the non-emergency line connects you to the right division.
For questions about specific cases, records requests, or complaints about officer conduct, you will need to contact the appropriate unit within the department. The main phone line can direct you to the right person or office.
Key Takeaways
- Call 911 for emergencies and crimes in progress; call 803-835-1400 for non-emergency reports and questions.
- The main office is at 200 South Lake Drive in Lexington and handles walk-in reports and inquiries during business hours.
- You can file reports for past crimes, lost property, or traffic incidents through the non-emergency line or in person.
- Records requests and complaints about officer conduct follow specific procedures that the department can explain when you contact them.
How to file a police report
You can file a report with the Lexington Police Department in three ways: by calling 803-835-1400, by visiting the main office in person at 200 South Lake Drive, or by going to the police department's website to see if an online reporting option is available for certain types of incidents.
When you call or visit, have details ready: what happened, when it happened, where it happened, and the names or descriptions of anyone involved. If property was stolen or damaged, bring information about the items and their value. If you were injured, describe your injuries. The officer taking your report will ask follow-up questions to make sure the information is complete.
After you file a report, you will receive a report number. Keep this number—you may need it for insurance claims, court cases, or to check on the status of your report later.
Reporting crimes in progress or emergencies
Call 911 immediately if a crime is happening now, someone is in danger, or you witness an active threat. Do not wait to call the non-emergency line. Tell the dispatcher what is happening, where you are, and whether anyone is hurt.
Stay on the line if the dispatcher asks you to. They may need more information to send the right officers. If it is safe to do so, move to a secure location and lock doors or windows. Do not approach the person or people involved in the crime.
After officers arrive and the scene is secure, you can ask for a report number or information about next steps. If you need to follow up later, use the non-emergency number to reach the department.
Records requests and public information
You can request copies of police reports, accident reports, or other records from the Lexington Police Department. Call 803-835-1400 and ask about the records request process. Some records are public, but others may be restricted by state law—the department will tell you what is available.
Records requests may take several days or weeks to process, depending on how many documents you need and how busy the department is. You may be charged a fee for copies. Ask about the cost and timeline when you make your request.
If you need information about a specific incident or case, provide as many details as you can: the date, location, names of people involved, and the type of incident. This helps the department find the right records faster.
Community programs and services
The Lexington Police Department runs community policing programs and may offer services like neighborhood watch coordination, crime prevention education, or community meetings. Call 803-835-1400 to ask what programs are available or to request an officer to speak at a community event.
Some departments also offer fingerprinting services for background checks, permits, or employment. Ask whether this service is available and what the process is.
Filing a complaint about an officer
If you have a complaint about how an officer treated you or about their conduct, you can file a formal complaint with the Lexington Police Department. Call 803-835-1400 and ask for the complaint process, or visit the main office in person.
When you file a complaint, describe what happened, when it happened, where it happened, and the officer's name or badge number if you know it. Be as specific as possible about the conduct you are reporting. The department will investigate and follow up with you about the outcome.
Traffic stops and citations
If you receive a traffic citation from the Lexington Police Department, the citation will include information about how to pay the fine or contest the ticket. Follow the instructions on the citation. If you have questions about the citation, call 803-835-1400.
If you were stopped and believe the stop was unfair or the citation was issued in error, you can contest it through the court system. The citation will tell you which court handles traffic cases and the deadline to respond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between calling 911 and the non-emergency number?
Call 911 if someone is in immediate danger, a crime is happening now, or there is an emergency. Call 803-835-1400 for everything else: reporting a past crime, asking questions, filing a report, or requesting information. Using the right number helps officers respond faster to real emergencies.
How long does it take to get a police report after I file one?
You receive a report number right away when you file. A written copy of the report may take several days to a few weeks, depending on how busy the department is and whether the case is still being investigated. Ask for a timeline when you file.
Can I get a copy of a police report online?
Some departments offer online report requests or viewing. Call 803-835-1400 or check the Lexington Police Department's website to see what options are available. You may be able to request reports by phone or in person if online options are not available.
What do I need to bring if I visit the police department in person?
Bring a photo ID and any documents related to your report or request—such as a lease if you are reporting a break-in, or a receipt if you are reporting theft. If you are filing a complaint, write down as many details as you remember about the incident and the officer involved.
How do I know the status of an investigation?
Call 803-835-1400 with your report number. The department can tell you whether the case is still open, closed, or forwarded to another agency. Some information may not be available if the case is still active or involves ongoing legal proceedings.