Frequently Asked Questions

Q. How do I reach the Sheriff's Department for service?

You can call the listed phone number for the substation or office located near you in the rural area. If no one is at the location, the phones are diverted to the Communications Center at (858) 565-5200.

Q. What are the public hours for the substations or offices?

The Sheriff's Rural substations are normally opened from Monday through Friday, 0800-1700, however there are no secretarial staff at the Boulevard and Borrego Springs offices. These are working patrol substations and offices, and the deputies will normally report to them for supplies, phone messages, etc. Usually the deputies are out on the beats working from their patrol vehicles.

Q. I need to get fingerprints taken. Where can I do this and how much does it cost?

For fingerprints, please schedule an appointment with the substation or office nearest your location. The fee is $6 for a single card. The Rural Division does not have the ability to utilize "live scan" for fingerprinting. The person being fingerprinted must present valid identification such as a driver's license or passport.

Q. How do I obtain a copy of a crime report?

Copies of all reports taken by the various rural substations or offices are retained for one year. The initial copy is free to the victim. Crime reports may be released with the authorization of the resident deputy sheriff and/or the detective assigned to the case. Certain circumstances may preclude the release of a report to anyone. All traffic accident reports taken in the rural area are the responsibility of the California Highway Patrol. Contact their office for instructions of how to obtain a copy.

Q. What if I get lost in the backcountry area?

Here are a few important points to always remember when hiking or driving in the backcountry:

1. Always tell someone of your travel plans, including a time when you will be back home, and contact them when you arrive back home.
2. When hiking, leave a plan and/or map in your parked vehicle. If you do get lost, this will greatly assist those assigned to search for you.
3. Follow your plan, don't deviate.
4. If you do become lost, remain at one location. Trained searchers will find you, however, if you continue to wonder after becoming lost, it makes it more difficult for the searchers.
5. Always carry food, water, and warm clothing with you when hiking. A cell phone and compass are also a good idea to bring with you.
6. Hike with partners, never alone.
7. If someone you know has not returned from a trip to the backcountry, don't hesitate to contact the Sheriff's Department. The sooner we have knowledge of the missing person(s), the sooner the Resident Deputies can initiate a search for them, which might also necessitate a call out of our Search and Rescue Unit.