Failure to respond to a request for records within five working days constitutes a violation of law. Also, withholding records that are not exempt and overcharging for records are violations of the law. Violations can results in civil penalties up to $2500 per violation to the individual employee and/or the City of Suffolk.

Departments and individuals who are not responsive, delay, and/or withhold information for release will receive a letter of non-compliance from the FOIA Officer which will be sent to the City Manager for record, review, and action. Failure to respond by an employee will be considered a reason to discipline.