How can I apply for residency status?

The City of Cleveland does not offer this service. However you can schedule a meeting online with the local Immigration Office here. This office will not take walk-ins and sees applicants by appointment only

Cleveland District Office
A.J.C. Federal Building
1240 East Ninth St., Room 501
Cleveland, OH 44199

Why would a police officer pull my car over?

An officer can ask you to pull over when there is reasonable suspicion of a violation.

What should I do if the police stop me when I’m driving?

Pull over and stay calm. If it is dark, turn on your car's inside lights. Put your hands on the steering wheel. Don't retrieve your license, vehicle registration or items from the glove compartment or back seat until the officer tells you to. Your cooperation will indicate to the officer that you are not looking for trouble.

What if the officer begins to write me a traffic ticket?

Explain your situation, but remain calm. Don't do anything that would give the officer reason to search further.

Once I'm stopped, can a police officer check for other violations?

Yes, a simple traffic stop can result in additional tickets. If you feel that it is not fair, take your protest to Traffic Court rather than arguing with the officer.

Why would an officer stop or detain me on the street?

Many factors are taken into consideration by police before they question someone. You may be stopped if you're near an area where a crime has been reported, or which is usually unoccupied. You may have been seen associating with people who are under investigation. Someone may have identified you as a potential suspect.

What should I do if I’m on the street and the police stop me?

Many problems may be avoided if you remain calm and answer the officer's questions. Sometimes the way you respond can determine whether or not things will escalate. The officer will be alerted to a potential problem if you refuse to answer simple questions, give false or evasive answers, or make contradictory statements. The officer must respect your right not to answer any questions the moment the questions begin to sound like accusations. You should never use abusive language towards the officer.

If the police come to my door, can I refuse to let them in?

Yes, unless they have a signed warrant or are pursuing a suspect who has entered your home.

If they come to my house with a warrant, what should I do?

Ask to see the warrant and make sure it is for your specific address. Read the list on what is to be searched. As long as they have a proper warrant, the police can legally enter your house.

What can I do if the police do not have a warrant but still insist on searching my house?

If you object, tell them you do not consent to them searching your home. Ask them why they are there. Ask them for their supervisor's name and badge number and for their names and badge numbers. Observe what they look like, and note the time they are there.

Are they allowed to search my house without a warrant?

Police may search without a warrant when someone is arrested. They may search the suspect and the area close to where the arrest was made. If the arrest is made in your home, they can search the room where the arrest took place. They can also search if you give them your consent, if there is an emergency (for example, someone is calling from inside your home for help), or when a suspect is chased into your home. If you object to a search, make it clear to the officers. If they confiscate any property, they must give you a written receipt unless it is intended to be used for evidence (such as stolen goods, guns, etc).

When can an officer use a gun?

An officer can only use a gun in a life-threatening situation, or one in which includes a clear threat of death or serious bodily injury to the officer, another officer, or a bystander.

How can I avoid situations with police that involve force or firearms?

The most important thing you can do is to remain cool and calm. Do not take action or make movements that running high.

If I have a complaint about police misconduct, who should I contact?

Complaints may be filed with:
The Office of Professional Standards
205 St. Clair Avenue, Third Floor
Cleveland, Ohio 44113

You may also call this office at 216-664-2944 or 216-664-2948. Complaints may also be directed to the Mayor's Action Center at 216-664-2900. The Community Relations Board can be reached at 216-664-2900 and the Administrative Division of the Police Department can be reached at 216-623-5000. As always, use 911 for emergency Police, Fire and Medical phone calls only.