How to File a Missing Persons Report in California
What to Do When Someone Goes Missing in California
CALL 1-877-619-9890 or EMAIL US
Filing a missing persons report in California involves the following steps:
1. Call 911 or Visit Your Local Police Department
• If the missing person is a child, elderly, or someone in immediate danger, call 911 right away.
• Otherwise, go to your nearest police station and provide all the details about the missing person.
2. Provide Key Information
• Full name, date of birth, and physical description
• Last known location and any relevant circumstances
• Recent photos and identifying marks (tattoos, scars, etc.)
• Medical conditions or medications needed
• Contact information for friends, relatives, or associates
3. Obtain a Case Number & Officer Contact
• Always ask for a case number and the name of the officer handling the case.
• Keep in regular contact with law enforcement for updates.
4. Check If the Person Is in Custody or a Medical Facility
• Call local jails and hospitals to rule out known locations.
5. Submit the Missing Person to NamUs
• The National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) allows you to create a missing person entry that can be accessed nationwide.
California Laws on Missing Persons Reports
Under California Penal Code §14205, law enforcement agencies must accept a missing persons report without delay and cannot refuse based on jurisdictional issues. If the missing person is a child or at-risk individual (such as those with dementia or disabilities), the report must be immediately entered into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and California’s Missing Person System (MUPS).
Additionally, per California Penal Code §14213, an at-risk missing person includes those who:
• Have mental or physical disabilities
• Are dependent on medications
• Are under 16 years old
• Are in suspicious circumstances or potential danger
Why You Should Hire a Private Investigator for a Missing Person Case
Unless a missing person is designated at-risk law enforcement will not actively search for the individual. This is where you need to assistance of a private investigator. Search Investigations only works on missing persons cases and we are the most successful missing persons agency in the Country.
Law enforcement resources are often stretched thin. Hiring a private investigator who specializes in missing persons cases provides critical advantages that can increase the chances of locating your loved one quickly.
Advantages of Hiring a Missing Persons Private Investigator
Dedicated Focus on the Case
• Law enforcement juggles multiple cases, but a private investigator provides undivided attention to locating the missing person.
Access to Specialized Search Resources
• As a licensed private investigator in multiple States, Search Investigations, has access to:
• Drones with thermal imaging
• Underwater ROVs for submerged searches
• Ground search teams and tracking dogs
• Advanced GPS tracking and data analysis tools
Immediate Collection of Surveillance Footage
• Surveillance footage from businesses, home ring cams, and traffic cameras, often gets erased within days. A knowledgable private investigatorI, can act fast to preserve critical evidence.
Expert Witness Interviews & Social Media Investigation
• We can track digital footprints, conduct forensic social media analysis, and interview key individuals.
Ability to Navigate Law Enforcement & Legal Channels
• With extensive experience working alongside law enforcement, we know how to push cases forward and ensure critical steps aren’t missed.
Contact a Professional Missing Persons Investigator in California
If your loved one is missing, don’t wait, take action now. Law enforcement is an important resource, but a private investigator can provide additional, specialized help that increases the chances of finding answers.
🔹 Contact Stephen Fischer, Private Investigator
🔹 Search Investigations, LLC
🔹 Licensed in CA, AZ, FL, TN, AL
🔹 Visit: SearchInvestigations.org
With years of experience in missing persons cases, I bring expertise, cutting-edge investigative tools, and a relentless commitment to finding the truth. Let’s work together to bring your loved one home.
