FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Do I call 911 for everything now?
It is acceptable to call 911 for any question or concern regarding police, fire or medical emergencies. General questions regarding phone numbers, community events, weather and road closures should be directed to the appropriate agency.

How do I reach a Police Officer, Deputy or State Trooper?
By calling 911. If the officer or deputy is on duty, the dispatcher will get a hold of them or send them a message for you. If they are off duty, the dispatcher would be able to transfer you to their voicemail. You may also reach a state trooper by dialing the Michigan State Police Post 31 in Bay City at (989) 684-2234.

How do I file a police report?
By calling 911 and having an officer or deputy sent to make the report. 911 dispatchers are unable to take a report over the phone.

How do I obtain a copy of a police/traffic report?
Copies of police reports are generally available 2-3 days following the filing of the report. Reports of incidents that occur in the County are available from the Sheriffs Office Records Division, (989) 839-4630. Reports of incidents that occur in the City are available from the City Police Records Division, (989) 631-5642. Under certain circumstances, there is a small fee for copies of reports.

When and where do I have my fingerprints taken?
Fingerprints are taken on Thursday mornings from 9 a.m. until 11:00 am at the Midland Law Enforcement Center, 2727 Rodd Street, Midland, Michigan. The contact person is Officer Wenzell at (989) 839-4648.

How do I obtain a Personal Protection Order (PPO) if someone is harassing or stalking me?
If you feel you are in danger at the present time, call 911 to have law enforcement assist you. If you are just seeking a protection order, you may contact the Midland County Circuit Court at (989) 832-6735 or 301 W. Main Street, Midland, Michigan.

My vehicle has been towed. How do I find out where it is?
Your vehicle may be at Beehrs Towing at (989) 631-1377, Midland Towing at (989) 832-0033, Midstate Towing at (989) 633-8697 or Cole's Wrecker Service at (989) 687-2214. You may need a release from the Sheriff's Office, depending on why the vehicle was towed. The wrecker company will be able to tell you if you need a release.

How do I get someone to leave my property?
For an unwanted person or someone that is trespassing, call 911 and have law enforcement assist you. However, to get a tenant or someone that has established temporary or permanent residence, you must have them evicted. You will want to contact Midland County Circuit Court at (989) 832-6735 or 301 W. Main Street, Midland, Michigan.

How do I have papers served?
The Midland County Sheriff's Office will serve legal papers for a fee. It is necessary to pay in advance for papers served by the Sheriff's Office. For questions, please contact Midland County Sheriff's Office, Civil Division at (989) 839-4630.

What is the law regarding car seats for children?
Children up to 25 pounds must ride facing the rear of the vehicle in an approved car restraint seat. Children 26-40 pounds and up to 4 years of age must ride in an approved car seat. It is recommended that small children be in the back seat of any vehicle containing air bags.

How do I find out if someone is in jail?
Any questions regarding inmates in jail should be directed to the Midland County Jail at (989) 832-6612 ext. 0 or by visiting 301 W. Main Street, Midland, Michigan.

What is a civil standby and how do I get one?
A civil standby is requested when an individual would like to get some personal belongings from a residence where there may be a potential for violence or confrontation. Civil standbys are provided for no longer than 15-20 minutes and are designed to 'keep the peace'.

What is 888-Tellmore?
If a chemical accident, tornado, flood, siren activation or some other extraordinary event occurs, emergency responders will provide, as quickly as possible, information to you about the event and its potential effects on the community through 1-888-TELL-MORE. For more detailed information, click here.

Who do I call about a dead deer in the roadway?
For dead deer on a City roadway, contact the Department of Public Services at (989) 837-6900. For dead deer on a County roadway, contact the Midland County Animal Control at (989) 832-6856. For a deer in the roadway that is injured, call 911 for an officer or deputy to be sent.

How do I get information about local events in the area (ie: fireworks, parade information, etc.)?
Information about local events are usually posted in the newspapers. Often the local television stations or radio stations will also have this information. Resources listed below are a great source of information and helps to keep the volume of non-emergency 911 calls to a minimum.

RESOURCES TO HELP YOU GET OTHER QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Director - Lisa Hall

Web Master / IT Guru - Carl Rodabaugh