3-1-1

Police Department

Overview

The Prichard Police Department works to protect life and property and to support a safe, respectful community across the City of Prichard. Officers provide patrol, respond to calls for service, investigate incidents, and support community safety efforts.

This page is designed to help residents quickly find the right resource—especially for emergencies, non-emergencies, records, and common service requests.

Emergency vs. Non-Emergency

  • Emergency: Call 911 for crimes in progress, threats to life, serious injuries, active disturbances, or any situation needing immediate response.
  • Non-emergency: Call the department’s non-emergency line for report follow-ups, questions, and non-urgent concerns. (Add non-emergency phone number here.)
  • General City service requests: Use Prichard 3-1-1 for non-police City service issues.

What We Help With

  • Patrol and emergency response
  • Incident reporting and investigations
  • Traffic-related safety concerns and enforcement
  • Community support and safety outreach (as available)

Before You Submit a Request

  • If you are in danger or a crime is happening now, call 911.
  • For non-emergency reporting, have the address/location, date/time, and a short description ready.
  • If you need a copy of a report, use the Records Requests tab (processing times and release rules may apply).

Quick Links

  • Report a Concern (non-emergency)
  • Records Requests
  • Services
  • Crime Prevention & Safety
  • Contact Information

Chief Walter Knight

I have dedicated more than twenty-five years to law enforcement and proudly serve as Chief of Police for the City of Prichard. I am a graduate of Mattie T. Blount High School (Class of 1995) and an active member of Metropolitan AME Church, where Pastor Kim Martin presides.

I began my public safety career in 1998 as a security guard for the City of Prichard and was sworn in as a police officer in February 2000. Through years of hard work, discipline, and commitment to service, I progressed through every supervisory rank within the department—Corporal, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain—and was appointed Chief of Police in November 2016. Throughout my career, I have served as Shift Supervisor, Shift Commander, Vice and Narcotics Commander, Traffic Unit Commander, Major Crimes Supervisor, Criminal Investigations Division Commander, and Commander of Day-to-Day Operations from 2011 to 2016.

I am a certified FBI Firearms Instructor and served as the Team Leader of the first SWAT Team in the City of Prichard. I earned my Associate degree of Applied Science in Criminal Justice in April 2014 and my Bachelor of Applied Science in Criminal Justice in January 2020, both from Columbia Southern University.

My service has been recognized with several honors, including the Combat Cross Award, Commander’s Commendation, two Chief’s Commendations, Supervisor of the Year in 2009, and the Award of Excellence with the Major Crimes Division for achieving a 100% homicide clearance rate in 2009.

I knew from a young age that law enforcement was the career I wanted to pursue, a profession where I could make a positive difference in the lives of others. After more than two decades in policing, I remain just as passionate today as I was on the day I was sworn in. While the

profession can be demanding and stressful, I firmly believe it is a calling meant for those who serve with integrity, dedication, and a genuine commitment to the community.

It is an honor to serve the citizens of Prichard and to lead the men and women of the Prichard Police Department. I value the opportunity to help others, knowing that no two days are ever the same, and I remain focused on guiding the department toward continued progress, accountability, and excellence in the years ahead.

Stations & Coverage

The Prichard Police Department provides coverage across the City of Prichard through patrol operations and coordinated response. For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency assistance, use the department’s non-emergency contact information listed on this page.

Headquarters / Main Location

  • Police Headquarters: 
  • Main Phone: 
  • Hours: 

Citywide Coverage

Prichard PD responds citywide. Patrol areas and staffing can shift based on call volume, special events, and public safety needs. If you need help and are unsure whether it is urgent, call 911.

Where to Start

  • Emergency: 911
  • Non-emergency reporting / questions: Use the Contact tab or call the non-emergency number
  • Report follow-up or copies: Use the Records Requests tab
  • General City service issues: Use Prichard 3-1-1 (for non-police service requests)

Services & Programs

The Prichard Police Department provides public safety services to residents, visitors, and businesses throughout the city. Below are the primary services residents most commonly request. For emergencies, call 911. For non-emergency assistance, contact the department’s non-emergency line.

Core Police Services

  • Emergency response: Immediate response to crimes in progress and urgent threats to life and property.
  • Patrol services: Routine patrol and proactive presence in neighborhoods and business areas.
  • Investigations: Follow-up investigations for reported incidents and casework support.
  • Traffic safety: Traffic enforcement and response to roadway safety concerns.

Reports & Records

  • Incident reports: File a report for non-emergency incidents and request follow-up as needed.
  • Crash reports: Request copies of crash/accident reports when available and eligible.
  • Records requests: Submit requests for copies of eligible police records through the Records Requests tab.

Community Policing

Community policing focuses on improving safety through communication, trust, and partnerships with residents, neighborhoods, faith communities, schools, and local businesses. The department supports public safety awareness and community engagement efforts as resources allow.

Safety Support

  • Safety tips and crime prevention: Guidance to help residents reduce risks at home, at work, and online.
  • Neighborhood concerns: Non-emergency concerns can be reported through the Report a Concern tab.
  • General City service issues: For non-police City service requests (such as street issues, sanitation concerns, or code-related items), contact Prichard 3-1-1.

Divisions & Units

The Prichard Police Department’s day-to-day work is carried out through core functions like patrol, investigations, and community support. Specific unit names and assignments can change based on staffing and public safety needs, but the categories below reflect the most common police divisions.

Patrol

Patrol officers provide the primary citywide response to calls for service, conduct proactive patrols, and work to prevent crime through visible presence and community engagement.

Investigations

The investigations function handles follow-up casework and supports criminal investigations that require additional time, interviews, evidence collection, and coordination with prosecutors and partner agencies.

Traffic & Roadway Safety

Traffic safety enforcement focuses on reducing crashes and improving roadway safety through enforcement, visibility, and response to traffic-related concerns.

Community Policing / Outreach

Community policing efforts support neighborhood relationships, safety education, and community partnerships. Outreach activities may include attending community meetings, supporting youth programs, and sharing safety information.

Administrative & Support Services

Administrative and support services help keep operations running, which can include records handling, report processing, communications support, and coordination of department resources.

Permits & Inspections

The City of Prichard lists fire inspections and permits as part of the City’s resident services. Requirements can vary depending on the type of work and the location of the property. If you are unsure what is needed for your request, contact the City/department office listed on this page for guidance.

Common Reasons You May Need an Inspection or Permit

  • Opening a new business or changing how an existing space is used
  • Renovations or improvements that may affect fire and life safety
  • Special events that may need safety review (based on scope and staffing)
  • Other requests where a fire-safety inspection is required by policy or code

What to Have Ready

  • Property address and contact information
  • Brief description of the request (what you are doing and when)
  • Any available plans, drawings, or supporting documents (if applicable)
  • Access information for the site (gate codes, point of contact, etc.)

What to Expect

  1. Submit your request or call for guidance on the correct process.
  2. Schedule the inspection (or plan review, if required).
  3. Complete the inspection. If corrections are needed, you may be asked to make updates and schedule a reinspection.
  4. Once requirements are met, the City can close out the request based on the applicable process.

State and Other Requirements

Some work may also involve state-level licensing or permitting requirements (for example, certain fire protection systems or other regulated activities). If additional approvals are required, the City will advise you on the appropriate next steps.

Important Reminder

  • Emergency: Call 911.
  • Non-emergency: Use the Contact Information tab for questions, scheduling, and guidance.

Records Requests

This page is for non-emergency records requests. If you need immediate police assistance, call 911. For general questions, you may contact the Prichard Police Department at (251) 452-2211 or visit the headquarters at 216 E Prichard Ave, Prichard, AL 36610.

Records requests are processed in accordance with applicable state law and department procedures. Some records may be restricted or not releasable due to privacy protections, active investigations, or other legal limits.

Request a Police Report (Incident / Offense)

Use this form to request a copy of an eligible police report. Providing as much detail as possible helps staff locate the correct record.

Request a Crash Report

Crash reports in Alabama are commonly obtained through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). This form helps route questions or local requests to the right process when possible.

General Public Records Request

Use this form for general police-related public records requests that do not fit the categories above. Be specific about what you are requesting to help staff respond efficiently.

What Happens Next

  • Staff will review your request and follow up by email or phone if additional details are needed.
  • Fees may apply depending on the type of record and the amount of copying or research required.
  • Processing time can vary based on the nature of the request and any legal review needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are common questions we receive. If you do not see your question listed, use the Contact Information tab to reach the department for non-emergency assistance.

When should I call 911?

Call 911 for any emergency such as fire, smoke in a building, a strong gas odor, a serious medical emergency, or any immediate threat to life or property.

What number should I use for non-emergencies?

For non-emergency questions or requests, use the department contact information listed on this page during normal business hours. If you need general City assistance, use Prichard 3-1-1.

Do I need a permit to burn outdoors?

Outdoor burning rules can vary by location and conditions. If you are planning to burn, make sure burning is allowed and follow all local and state requirements. If you are unsure, contact the City/department office for guidance before you burn.

How do I request a fire inspection or permit?

Fire inspections and permits are part of the City’s inspection/permit process. Contact the City/department office listed on this page to confirm what is needed and to schedule or submit your request.

How do I request a fire report or other records?

Use the Records Requests tab to submit a request. Provide the address, date/time (if known), and the type of record you need. Some records may be restricted or may require verification before release.

Can you help with smoke alarms?

If you have questions about smoke alarm placement, testing, or replacement, contact the department for guidance. If programs are available at the time of your request, staff will advise you on next steps.

Can the fire department visit my school or community group?

Safety presentations and community outreach may be available based on staffing and scheduling. Use the Contact Information tab to submit a non-emergency request with your preferred dates and details.

What should I do if I smell smoke or gas but don’t see fire?

Treat strong smoke or gas odors as a potential emergency. Get to a safe location and call 911. Do not try to locate the source yourself if there is any risk.

What should I do if a fire hydrant is leaking or damaged?

If a hydrant is actively leaking or creating a hazard, call 911. For non-emergency issues, report it through Prichard 3-1-1 or the City contact methods listed on the website.

What happens if my business has repeated false alarms?

False alarm policies and any related fees or requirements are handled through the City’s process. If your property is experiencing repeat alarms, contact the City/department office for guidance on next steps to reduce false activations.

Note: Information on this page is general guidance. Requirements and processes can vary depending on the situation.

Contact Information

If you need immediate assistance for a fire, smoke, gas odor, or any urgent situation, call 911.

For non-emergency questions, records requests, and general assistance, use the information below or send a message using the form.

Emergency

  • Emergency: 911

Non-Emergency

  • Main Office / Administration: 
  • Email: 
  • Office Hours:

Mailing / Physical Address

.

Send a Message

Use the form below for non-emergency messages. Please do not use this form to report an emergency.

General City Assistance

  • Prichard 3-1-1: Use for general City service requests and assistance.