Division of Professional Standards

The Records Division is responsible for maintaining and managing all official documents and reports for the department. This includes processing public records requests, archiving case files, and ensuring accurate record-keeping to support law enforcement operations. The division plays a vital role in data management, compliance, and information accessibility for both the department and the public.

Hours & Services

The Records Division is located in the front lobby of the Michigan City Police Department.
Hours of Operation: Monday – Thursday from 8:00 AM – 4:30 AM

Police Reports

Handgun Permits

Parking Ticket Payment

Fingerprinting

Background Checks

Case Reports

Vehicle Inspections

VIN Number Checks

Notice: Reports are available three (3) business days from the date reported. Please also note, in some circumstances, you will be required to complete an Access to Public Records Request form. The request will then be reviewed. Once this request is approved or denied, you will be notified in writing of the approval and you may then, with your approval letter, contact the Records Division for the requested item/copies.

Fees for Service

  • Accident Report – $8.00 or Online – $12.00

  • Fingerprinting – $25.00 For Residents & $30.00 For Non-Residents
  • Basic Case Report – $20.00

  • Background Check – $30.00

  • Additional Public Access Copies – $.10 per page for standard size Black & White and $.25 per page for standard sized Color

  • Photographs – $1.00 each

  • Audio tapes, videotapes, DVDs or CDs, per item: – $10.00 plus any outside production costs

  • Body Camera Video Footage – $150.00

  • VIN Checks – $10.00

  • 5-Year State Handgun Permit – FREE

  • Lifetime State Handgun Permit – $50.00

  • Limited Criminal History – $3.00 NO HISTORY

  • Criminal History Check – $7.00

  • Juvenile Criminal History – $5.00

  • Animal License – $10.00

  • False Alarm Fee (more than 2 per month) – $75.00

  • Portable Breath Test Check – $20.00

Michigan City Police Officer Speaking

Professional Standards

MCPD’s Division of Professional Standards ensures that the citizens of Michigan City continue to be protected and served by law enforcement professionals who conduct themselves in accordance with the highest standards of integrity, proficiency, and accountability.

  • Public Records Management – Handles Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests.

  • Community Engagement – Manages public relations and outreach initiatives.

  • Internal Oversight – Conducts internal affairs investigations.

  • Departmental Administration – Oversees the Records and Training Divisions.

Division of Professional Standards

Lieutenant Steve Westphal

Commander

Lieutenant Mike ‘Dusty’ King

Training Coordinator

Handgun Permits

Indiana allows open carry; however, residents may still apply for a handgun permit for various legal and personal reasons. The Michigan City Police Department no longer processes fingerprinting for handgun permits, and all applications must be completed online through the Indiana State Police website. Applicants should follow state guidelines for eligibility, fingerprinting, and submission requirements. For more information on handgun permits, visit the official Indiana government site.

concealed carry permit with handgun and self-defense bullets
Michigan City Police Officer Speaking

Parking Tickets

Parking Tickets issued by the City of Michigan City may be paid during normal business hours at the Records Division. After hours, you may pay at the front desk in the Michigan City Police Department lobby.

Any person charged with violating the stopping, standing, or parking restrictions under this ordinance may, within 24 hours from the time of issuance of notice of violation pay a fine of $50.00 to the Traffic Clerk at the Michigan City Police Department.

Payment Forms Accepted:

  • Cash

  • Personal check
  • Credit Card
  • Money Order

Fingerprinting

Fingerprinting as part of an employment screening by a prospective employer, or for other background check history and/or immigration is completed in our front lobby, adjacent to the Records Division. There is no fee for this service. Fingerprinting is only conducted during the hours of 6:30 AM and 5:00 PM daily.

fingerprinting process
Auto mechanic checking vehicle identification number of the car using laptop hooked up to the car onboard computer

Vehicle Inspections and VIN Number Checks

VIN/HIN checks a provided Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM for a fee of $10.00.
You must have the proper paperwork for the vehicle, including the title.

Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) check inspections are required for out of state purchased vehicles prior to being registered by IN BMV. BMV staff may refer you to the Police Department for this inspection prior to being issued a registration.

The most common reasons the BMV requires a identification number check on you vehicle include:

  • you purchased a vehicle with an out-of-state title;

  • you moved to Indiana from out-of-state;

  • you purchased a trailer without a VIN number;

  • you built a new trailer; and/or

  • you have an error on your title.

For watercraft or un-drivable vehicles or trailers, when an officer is required to come to your place of residence, work, etc within the Michigan City Corporate Limits, the fees must be paid in the Records Division prior to the inspection. You will be provided with a form and a receipt to show the inspecting officer as proof of purchase.

Join Our Team

Become part of Michigan City s finest, where integrity meets dedication in serving our community. Join a team of exceptional officers who protect, serve, and make a meaningful difference in people s lives every day. Our badge represents a proud tradition of excellence and a commitment to the highest standards of public service.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent, must be at least 21 years of age, valid driver’s license, pass physical fitness test, and clean criminal record