Police Information Removal Request Letter: Free Template and What to Include

If you need to request Chief Constable remove non-conviction information from records, a written letter is the recommended first step — it creates a clear record and shows you're pursuing the matter formally. Below is what a strong police information removal request should include.

What this letter needs to cover

• Set out the circumstances of the original incident and why the information is irrelevant
• Reference the right to have inaccurate or irrelevant information removed
• Request written response within 30 days

Your right to request removal of non-conviction information

Police forces sometimes retain records of arrests, cautions, or allegations that never resulted in a conviction — this information can still appear on an enhanced DBS check in some circumstances. You have a right to ask the relevant Chief Constable to review and, where appropriate, remove this information if it's no longer relevant or proportionate to retain.

What to include before you send it

• The specific information you're asking to be removed or reviewed
• The circumstances — for example, no charges were brought, or charges were later dropped
• Why you believe continued retention is disproportionate given the time elapsed and the outcome
• A clear request for a decision in writing

What factors influence the decision

Chief Constables weigh factors including how long ago the incident occurred, the seriousness of the original allegation, whether there's a pattern of similar concerns, and the impact continued disclosure has on your life — particularly around employment. A single, isolated, historic incident with no charges brought generally has a stronger case for removal than a recent or repeated pattern.

Frequently Asked Questions

What if my request is refused?
You can seek an independent review through the Independent Monitor, who oversees disputes about information disclosed on enhanced DBS checks specifically.

Does this apply to old cautions as well as arrests?
Yes, though cautions are treated somewhat differently from arrests with no formal outcome — the specific circumstances of your case will affect how the request is assessed.

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Postcode]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
The Chief Constable
[Name of Police Force, e.g. Greater Manchester Police]
[Recipient Address]
[Recipient Postcode]
[Date]

Dear Chief Constable,

Subject: Request to review and remove non-conviction information

I am writing to ask you to review, and remove, information your force holds about me that did not lead to a conviction.

My details are:
• Full Name: [Your Name, including any previous names]
• Date of Birth: [Your Date of Birth]

The information I am asking you to remove is: [describe it, e.g. a record of my arrest on [date] at [police station], reference [number if known]].

The circumstances were: [e.g. no charges were brought / the charges were dropped on [date] / I was found not guilty on [date]].

I believe it is no longer relevant or proportionate to keep this information because [e.g. it was [number] years ago, the outcome above, and it has no connection to my work].

Please give me your decision in writing within 30 days.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Signature]
[Your Printed Name]