How to File a missing person report in Tennessee.
What You Need to Know About Filing a Missing Person Report
Filing a missing person report in Tennessee (or anywhere in the U.S.) should be done with law enforcement in the area where the person was last seen. Reports are not limited to family members—anyone with valid concerns can file.
A common misconception is that you must wait 72 hours before filing a missing person report. This is false. If you have reason to believe someone is missing, act immediately. While some officers may suggest waiting, you are not required to do so. Trust your instincts and insist on filing the report if you are confident the person is missing.
For additional clarity, below is a reference to the Nashville Police Department's policies and procedures regarding missing persons. According to Section 15.60.020:
Nashville Police Department Policies and Procedures on Missing Persons.
Understanding the Initial Missing Person Report
The initial report you file is not considered an official missing person case. Instead, it serves as the information law enforcement uses to decide if the person meets the criteria for a missing person investigation.
Providing complete and accurate details in this report is crucial. Law enforcement often needs to assess factors like mental health concerns, possible criminal activity, suicidal thoughts, or other sensitive issues. Many people hesitate to disclose this information, thinking they’re protecting the individual’s privacy. However, particularly for adults, it’s important to understand that people are allowed to go missing voluntarily. Unless the person’s disappearance is classified as “at risk” based on their behavior, law enforcement may not elevate the case to a critical status.
This means that individuals not considered in imminent danger may not receive active search efforts. Law enforcement focuses on critical cases where the person is deemed to be at significant risk of harm.
What Happens After Filing the Initial Report?
Once you submit the initial report, the officer will determine whether the person is truly missing. Many people file missing person reports not because someone is in danger, but to locate someone who has voluntarily distanced themselves, such as an ex-partner or estranged friend. These cases don’t meet the criteria for a missing person investigation.
If the officer finds the report to be valid, the case is entered into the law enforcement database and the National Crime Information Center (NCIC), becoming an official missing person investigation.
For additional details, refer to the Nashville Police Department policies and procedures.
Nashville Police Department Policies and Procedures for Filing a Missing Person Report
What Happens After Your Missing Person Report is Official?
Once your missing person report is validated, it receives an NCIC case number, and a detective is assigned to begin the investigation. This ensures that any interaction the missing individual has with law enforcement nationwide will flag them in the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database.
However, the extent of the investigation and resources allocated depends on the circumstances of the case. Unfortunately, law enforcement agencies are often overwhelmed with limited staff and budgets. This can result in critical cases being prioritized, while others may receive minimal attention.
Why Consider Private Search and Rescue Services?
For families seeking more immediate and thorough support, hiring a private investigator or search and rescue agency, such as SEARCH Investigations, can fill the gaps left by law enforcement. While private investigations can be costly, they offer the advantage of bypassing the bureaucratic delays often faced by government agencies, all while maintaining coordination with law enforcement efforts.
By choosing a private agency, you gain access to specialized expertise, dedicated personnel, and advanced tools that can make a significant difference in locating your loved one.
How SEARCH Investigations Can Help Locate Missing Persons
At SEARCH Investigations, we leverage cutting-edge technology and manpower to conduct exhaustive searches. Our services include:
Thermal Drone Searches: Identify heat signatures in remote or challenging environments.
Private K9 Teams: Scent-tracking dogs trained for precision searches.
Surveillance and Interviews: Collect critical insights from witnesses and investigate potential suspects.
Database Access: Utilize tools such as license plate readers and restricted databases exclusive to law enforcement.
In Tennessee, Alabama, and beyond, we also provide ground and air search operations, ensuring comprehensive coverage for your case.
Meet Our Expert Team Leader
Our team is led by Steve Fischer, a licensed private investigator with extensive expertise, including:
NASAR SARTECH Certification for ground search and rescue operations.
FAA-Licensed Commercial Drone Pilot specializing in aerial searches.
Certified Fixed-Wing Pilot experienced in search and rescue missions.
Steve’s unique qualifications and dedication ensure every case receives top-tier attention.
Contact SEARCH Investigations Today
We are available 24/7 to assist with missing person cases across all 50 states, including Tennessee and Alabama. Contact us at 1-877-619-9890 or email us here. Our team is ready to deploy on short notice, giving your loved one the best chance of being found.
Search and Rescue ground and air services are available nationwide. Private investigation services are offered in Tennessee, Alabama, and states with reciprocity.
