Police FAQs

Report a Crime

What crimes can I report online?

If it’s an emergency or the crime is currently occurring, please call 911.
If the crime is not an emergency, it occurred within the Bellevue city limits, there are no known suspects and it did not occur on the freeway, you may use the police online portal to file a report. Every report is reviewed by an officer.
You can also report crime tips or traffic complaints through the online reporting portal. For more information visit the Bellevue Police website “Report a Crime” page.

How do I report a crime online?

Make sure you have all your information in front of you and then file a report. Please make sure to turn off your pop-up blocking software before filing the report.
See Reporting FAQs for more information about online reporting.

Police Records Request

How do I obtain a police report or record?

All requests for City of Bellevue public records, including police records, can be made via our public records center.
Police records include case reports, collision reports, crime statistics, incident reports and photographs, and audio/video associated with police cases. Requests must concern identifiable records relating to the conduct of Bellevue police business prepared, owned, used, or retained by the Bellevue department.
Please see Police Public Records for more information.

Concealed Pistol License

How do I apply for a concealed pistol license?

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, state applications for concealed pistol licenses and renewals, late renewals, and replacements of such licenses, except for firearms dealer licenses, are only accepted by mail. Bellevue police only provide licenses to Bellevue residents.
Fingerprints must be taken for new applicants. Bellevue Fingerprinting Service, a local business, meets Bellevue police requirements and will submit fingerprint cards for applicants. Applicants are not required to use their services. Should you find a different vendor to take your fingerprints, you will need to submit your fingerprint card sealed by the selected fingerprinting service to the Police Records Unit by mail, together with your completed application and fee. Bellevue Fingerprinting Service and other vendors may charge fees for their services.
Please contact the Police Records Unit before submitting your application at 425-452-6917 or BPDRecords@bellevuewa.gov during regular business hours (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.). We will provide you with all of the necessary information.
Please see Concealed Pistol License for more information about requirements and fees.

How do I renew my Firearm Dealer License?

Firearm Dealer Licenses are renewed by appointment only. Please contact BPDRecords@bellevuewa.gov to request an appointment.

Sector Captains

What is the Sector Captain program?

Chief Steve Mylett instituted the Sector Captain program shortly after arriving at the Bellevue Police Department in 2015. The city is divided into three sectors, North, South, and West. Each sector is assigned a captain, who is responsible for addressing issues in their area. This program increases communication between police and the community and helps to reduce crime and the fear of crime throughout the city.

How do I contact my Sector Captain?

A captain is assigned to each of three geographical sectors -- North, South, and West -- and is ultimately responsible for issues taking place in their sector. If you have an ongoing problem affecting your neighborhood, contact your sector captain. To identify the sector for your neighborhood, please refer to the sector captain map. You may contact your sector captain through this link.

Do not contact the sector captain to report crimes or incidents in progress. Please call 9-1-1 for emergencies or the police non-emergency number at (425) 577-5656.

Traffic and Parking Issues

How do I report problem traffic areas?

The Bellevue Police Department's Traffic Section accepts online traffic service requests concerning speeding vehicles, problem traffic areas, or parking problems within the city limits. A supervisor will review all requests. You may file a Traffic Service Request on the police website.

How do I report parking violations or abandoned vehicles?

You can report vehicles that haven't moved within 24 hours through MyBellevue Customer Assistance.

Homelessness Assistance

How do I request assistance for people experience homelessness or report an encampment?

You can request homelessness assistance for an individual experiencing homelessness or with a homeless encampment through MyBellevue Customer Assistance. You can find more information about the City of Bellevue’s approach to homelessness on the city's website.

Crime Prevention

How can I get crime prevention information?

BPD has a full-time Crime Prevention Officer. The Crime Prevention Officer works with the community to decrease crime by developing, implementing, and coordinating a variety of police programs in crime prevention:

Developing, managing, coordinating, and implementing a variety of crime prevention, safety, and community relations programs for the Police Department, including, but not limited to Neighborhood Watch, marijuana retail/commercial program, Downtown Business Association liaison, and the Cry Wolf False Alarm Reduction Program;
Conduct crime prevention education services including, but not limited to, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), security assessments, Identity Theft awareness, Adult and Child Safety Education, Drug Prevention, Cyber Safety, Elder Abuse, and Workplace Violence Education.
Interfaces with the media, police or city public information officers, and city staff regarding programs and city crime-related issues.
Acts as a liaison between the police department and the community on crime-related topics and serves as an information resource to citizens and the public.

You can find crime prevention resources and information on the BPD website. If you can't find the information there, contact the Crime Prevention Officer at crimeprevention@bellevuewa.gov.

Complaints and Compliments

How do I file a complaint?

There are several ways to contact the Police Office of Accountability and file a complaint or compliment. All complaints are thoroughly investigated.

If you wish to file a complaint in person, you can come to the City Hall Police Station and request a supervisor. While at the station, you can also obtain a written complaint form that can be returned via fax or mail. You can also make use of the lobby computer to email or fill out an online complaint.

You can send an email to bpdaccountability@bellevuwa.gov or file an online complaint or compliment. You can call and leave a message for the sergeant in the Office of Accountability, 425-452-6173.

Finally, you can speak with an on-duty supervisor by phone to file a complaint. Contact NORCOM 911 at any time of the day or night at the police non-emergency number 425-577-5656. An on-duty supervisor is always available to speak with you.

What happens when a complaint is filed?

Complaints are routed to the officer’s direct supervisor. The supervisor will conduct a fact-finding investigation and advise the Office of Accountability of the details of the complaint. If the matter alleges serious misconduct, the Office of Accountability will coordinate with the involved employee’s Chain of Command to include the Chief of Police, who will then assign it to the Office of Accountability to investigate. This type of complaint is known as a Formal Standards Investigation and could result in discipline, including termination for the officer.
If the matter is determined to involve dissatisfaction of service delivered or allegations of minor misconduct, the officer’s direct supervisor or Office of Accountability will investigate the complaint. This is known as a Dissatisfaction of Service Complaint or an Informal Standards investigation.
If the complaint involves an allegation of criminal misconduct, the Chief of Police may request an outside law enforcement agency to conduct the criminal investigation. All complaints of sexual harassment or unlawful workplace harassment are also reported to the City’s Human Resources Department.
All complaints are filed within the Office of Accountability and retained as per Washington State records retention laws.

How is the complaint investigated?

The complaint process begins with interviewing the complainant, witnesses and gathering any physical evidence (video, audio, etc.). The investigator will also interview the officer named in the complaint. The investigator then completes an investigative report. Finally, there will be a determination of findings, and the investigator will notify the complainant of the outcome.

Who makes the final decision?

When the first-line supervisor investigates a minor or dissatisfaction of service complaint, the final recommendation on discipline is jointly made between the first-line supervisor and next rank supervisor (typically a captain) and given to the division commander (Major) for the decision. For serious misconduct complaints, such as those investigated by the Office of Accountability, the employee’s entire chain of command reviews the investigative file and makes a recommendation to the Chief of Police. The Chief of Police makes the final decision on all discipline.

Is there an early warning system to evaluate on-going behavior by officers?

The Bellevue Police Department actively and continually reviews employee performance at all levels. The Office of Accountability tracks all complaints and attempts to identify behavior patterns that may require corrective measures, including officers' use of force, performance evaluations, officer-involved collisions, or photo enforcement citations. Plus, the Bellevue Police Department has an active peer support and wellness program designed to help the officer's mental well-being. Correctives measures include, but are not limited to, discipline, remedial training, coaching and counseling, and employee assistance.

How many complaints does the Bellevue Police Department receive?

You can find the type and resolution of complaints against Bellevue Police officers for the past five years on the Bellevue Police website.

Is there an independent investigation regarding deadly use of force?

Yes, the Law Enforcement Training and Community Safety Act requires that all police use of deadly force that results in death, substantial bodily harm, or great bodily harm be investigated by an independent investigative team. This investigation is handled entirely independently of the Bellevue Police Department by another law enforcement agency.

Can I view the Bellevue Police Department's Use of Force policy and past incidents?

Yes, the Use of Force policy is posted on the police department website. You can see the use of force summary and analysis on the department’s data dashboard.

How do I send a compliment?

You can send in a compliment in a variety of ways. You can contact the Office of Accountability at (425) 452-4552 or bpdaccountability@bellevuewa.gov. You can also fill out a feedback form which will be sent to the Office of Accountability.

Compliments will be sent to the officer and the officer's supervisor.

Officer Training

What types of training do Bellevue Police officers receive?

There are multiple stages of certification and training required to become a police officer. The first stage is Basic Training for Peace Officers through the Washington State Criminal Justice Training Commission (CJTC). This academy is for entry-level or new officers and covers a variety of topics throughout the 720-hour curriculum. The basic curriculum can be found here https://cjtc.wa.gov/, but covers topics such as criminal investigations, criminal law, procedures, people in crisis, use of force, firearms, and patrol tactics. Built into those curriculums are topics such as implicit bias, unbiased policing, and use of force. If we hire an experienced officer, or lateral, from outside of Washington State, they must attend a two-week equivalency academy at CJTC.
This equivalency academy instructs them on Washington State-specific laws and procedures.
The second stage of training required to be a Bellevue Police Officer is the 227-hour in-house curriculum designed to reinforce skills learned in the academy and topics specific to the City of Bellevue. This training includes department expectations of officer conduct, ethical behavior, unbiased (anti-discrimination) policing, constitutional law, use of force, firearms, de-escalation, department policies and procedures, and our culture of community policing and engagement.
The third stage is our 16-week Field Training Program. The new officer is assigned to various experienced Field Training Officers to ensure they have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform at the high level we demand as a police officer for the City of Bellevue. After successful completion of field training, the officers continue to be closely monitored and evaluated until they have completed their probationary period, which is usually one year.
Our officers are also required to attend annual ongoing training each year.
The minimum in-service training required by the state of Washington is 24 hours; however, most complete many more than that. Part of this ongoing, annual refresher training specifically addresses unbiased policing, implicit bias, ethics, and use of force. The minimum 24-hours must also include successfully completing the state-mandated annual Crisis Intervention Training (CIT) course through the WA State CJTC.

Are officers trained to de-escalate altercations?

The Bellevue Police Department does require officers to de-escalate. They are trained to use verbal de-escalation tactics and continue to do so as long there is no immediate threat to the officer or innocent bystanders. Additionally, having multiple officers respond to calls can be an effective de-escalation tool we use. We train to use time and distance along with verbal commands.
De-escalation is incorporated into our yearly in-service, scenario-based training. These are developed and taught by our certified instructors and are meant to reinforce de-escalation tactics.
All our officers are trained in a state-certified program called Crisis Intervention Training. After the initial 8 hour or 40-hour training class, we also attend a 2-hour refresher class every year. Officers also can request trained mental health professionals to respond to scenes when their expertise would be beneficial.

Are Bellevue officers thoroughly vetted to ensure they don't have a history with abuse, racism, xenophobia, discrimination or participation in hate groups?

Yes. Before being hired as a Bellevue Police officer, applicants must undergo a thorough background process to ensure the applicant meets the minimum requirements for employment as a certified police officer. That background process ensures they have not engaged in conduct that would jeopardize the public trust and are of good moral character. This starts with a personal history questionnaire (PHQ) which covers almost every aspect of their lives, including job history, family history, criminal history, social media presence, and personal and professional references.
A specifically trained background investigator then completes an investigation to ensure the information supplied in the PHQ was accurate and truthful. Part of this process also includes a polygraph exam and a psychological exam.
Honesty and integrity are essential traits for a successful career in law enforcement. Any false statements, presence of automatic disqualifiers, lack of candor, cheating, or failure to fully divulge requested information during a background investigation may result in immediate disqualification from the hiring process.

Use of Force

What are the guidelines for use of force?

A police officer’s job is to protect the Constitutional rights of all persons. Our Use of Force is defined under policies 01.00.010 through 01.00.100. Our policy regarding the use of restraints, such as handcuffs, is defined under policy 24.00.040. When officers are engaged in any resistance encounter, they are trained and held accountable to use only that amount of force necessary to resolve a situation. Additionally, every officer receives training on the Federal and State laws that govern a police officer’s use of force.

Can officers use chokeholds or neck restraints?

By state law, officers are prohibited from using chokeholds and neck restraints.

Are officers allowed to shoot at or from moving vehicles?

Only as a last resort. Policy 1.00.030 – Use of Firearms- Prohibited: Officers are prohibited from firing at or from a moving vehicle except as a last resort to protect the officer(s) or others from an immediate threat, death, or serious bodily injury.

Are Bellevue police officers trained to perform and seek necessary medical action after using force?

Yes, officers are trained in basic lifesaving skills, CPR, First Aid, and AED, including tourniquets. They utilize these skills when responding to many calls for service and are trained to seek medical attention following incidents where force was necessary to resolve the situation.
Policy 01.00.010 – Use of Force states, “When safe to do so, officers shall ensure that all persons involved in the use of force receive first aid or medical treatment if needed or requested. If the officer is in doubt as to the necessity of medical attention, officers will seek guidance from a supervisor.”

Volunteer Opportunities

What volunteer opportunities are there at the Bellevue Police Department?

For more than 25 years, the Bellevue Police Department has had an award-winning, nationally recognized volunteer program. There are 33 regularly scheduled volunteer jobs include staffing police substations at Crossroads and Factoria, parking enforcement, shuttling patrol cars, resupplying patrol cars, assisting crime analysis, and other supporting functions. Positions are designed for long-term commitment and require candidates to undergo a rigorous application and screening process.

How do I apply to be a police volunteer?

To apply to become a police volunteer, please fill out an application. You will be contacted if a suitable assignment is available. The application process includes a series of interviews, a complete background investigation, and a polygraph exam.

What is Paws on Patrol and how do I sign up?

You and your dog (or any pet you take for a walk!) can become a crime-fighting duo. As you walk your neighborhood, all you need to do is pay attention to any suspicious activity. No one knows your neighborhood better than those who frequently walk it. Having an extra set of eyes and ears, sniffing out, and reporting suspicious events can help reduce and prevent crime.

All you have to do is sign up. You'll receive basic training on how to spot suspicious activity, plus your crime-fighting partner will get a special Paws on Patrol tag. You can apply through this link.

How do I join a Police Advisory Council?

The Bellevue Police Department has seven Police Advisory Councils to the Chief, African American, Muslim, Latino, LGBTQI, Interfaith, API, and South Asian.

The goal is to strengthen the relationship between the department and the community through trust, respect, and mutual understanding. We do this by establishing an environment that promotes dialogue, education, and a true partnership.

For more information about the Police Advisory Councils, see the Bellevue police website.

If you are interested in joining an advisory council, please contact Major Andrew Popochock at apopochock@bellevuewa.gov.

How does the Bellevue Police Department engage with the community?

Police Advisory Councils

An essential element of our community-building efforts is the Police Advisory Councils.

The Bellevue Police Department has seven Police Advisory Councils to the Chief, African American, Muslim, Latino, LGBTQI, Interfaith, API, and South Asian.

The goal is to strengthen the relationship between the department and the community through trust, respect, and mutual understanding. We do this by establishing an environment that promotes dialogue, education, and a true partnership.

For more information about the Police Advisory Councils, see the Bellevue police website.

If you are interested in joining an advisory council, please contact Major Andrew Popochock at apopochock@bellevuewa.gov.

Public safety forums and informational meetings

The police department holds several public meetings each year to discuss general safety issues and specific incidents in the community. The meetings are posted on the department’s social media pages Twitter @Bvuepd, Facebook @Bvuepd, Nextdoor, and the BPD website.

Community Station Officers

The Community Station Officer (CSO) program provides an accessible point of contact for citizens around Bellevue. There are three CSOs, one in Factoria, Crossroads, and City Hall. CSOs participate in community events, including the Child Safety Fair & Shop with a Cop; they give talks and presentations on police-related topics and offer residents expertise on safety issues. CSOs also address chronic crime-related problems in Bellevue and establish relationships with neighborhood organizations and other community groups.

Community Academy

The Bellevue Police Department hosts two Community Academies each year where community members spend 12 weeks learning about the police department. The academy covers topics like police use of force, firearms, and patrol procedures. To find out when the next is scheduled or to apply click this link.

Community Events

Each year the Bellevue Police department participates in the citywide National Night Out against crime event in August.
Officers bring patrol cars, motorcycles, and specialty rigs to engage with the community. Neighborhoods throw BBQs, get to know the officers and each other, all while promoting safety.
Additionally, Bellevue officers also hold the Child Safety Fair at the Marketplace in Factoria. Families can learn child safety tips, get a free ID kit, see different police and fire rigs and get their pictures taken. Many times, a limited number of free bike helmets are available.

Social Media - Connect with Us!

BPD keeps residents informed about crimes, crime trends, and events on several social media platforms, including Twitter @Bvuepd, Facebook @Bvuepd, and Nextdoor. Bellevue police recruiting is also on Facebook @bellevuewapolicerecruiting and Instagram @bellevuewapolicerecruiting.

Youth Outreach

Bellevue police officers engage with young people in the community in a variety of positive ways.

PD partners with the Boys and Girls Club by attending club activities and camps. Also, the PD provides pizza to the Boys and Girls Club Teen Center once a month. Watch the video here.
PD sponsors at-risk youth who are willing to attend the WA youth academy
PD partners with local nonprofit gyms to provide positive outlets for youth. Watch the video here.
Partnership with Youth Eastside Services and the Salvation Army to support youth through various activities and events. Watch the video here.
Partnership with the Bellevue skatepark through year-round skate camps that build positive relationships and trust with approximately 120 youth per year since 2015. Watch the video here.
Hosting station tours for various organizations and conducting use of force demonstrations to educate groups about the variables that go into dealing with a dynamic situation.
Partnering with pro skateboard legend Mike Vallely and his skateboard company to give away skateboards to youth in our community. Pd has given away almost 20 boards over the past two years.
Partnering with Gainesville nonprofit basketball cop foundation, which has sent six ‘ukuleles, ten skateboards, helmets and pads, boxing gloves, and hand wraps to give away to people in our community. Watch the video here.
Coordinating the collection and delivery of donated toys from the crossroads community center to families in need.

Support for the Community

Bellevue Police officers routinely reach out in search of ways to support families in need.

Coordinating and hosting free grocery/food drive with nonprofit AMpowering. Watch the video here.
Collecting donated furniture/household items and delivering those items to families coming out of homelessness with nonprofits Hopelink, Jubilee Reach, Habitat for Humanity, and the King County Housing Authority. Watch the video here.
PD partners with the Salvation Army, serving dinner to homeless and less fortunate members. Watch the video here.
PD runs a Paws on Patrol program that encourages dog walkers to be watchful during walks and report any potential criminal activity. You can apply here to enroll you and your four-legged crimefighter.