Show All Answers

1. What about the lie detector?

In certain cases, where we can't determine the truth any other way, you may be asked to take a polygraph examination. The same is true of our officers.

2. What if I'm not satisfied with the results of this investigation?

We sincerely hope that would never happen. If it does, you can contact the Municipal Administrator, or in some cases, the City Attorney or the Grand Jury.

• City Attorney Staff Directory

3. Will I have to write out my complaint?

Yes. Normally, for a complaint to be investigated, the complaint must be in writing, signed, and dated by the complaining person. Anonymous complaints will be taken but the lack of a known complainant or uncooperative complainant may hinder the investigation.

4. Will I be told how the complaint is resolved?

Yes. You will receive a letter from the Chief of Police telling you the disposition of our investigation.

5. Could I get in trouble for complaining?

Not if what you are telling us is the truth. We would not (and could not) bring charges against a person who has acted in good faith. Deliberately filing a false police report is a criminal offense.

6. Does that mean the police division wants complaints?

Of course not. A complaint means that someone may not have done their job correctly. We do want to know when our service needs to be improved or corrected.

7. Will you listen to my complaint?

Yes. Either an investigator assigned from the Internal Affairs Unit or the Officer's supervisor (Section, Bureau Commander) will investigate a complaint against an officer.\

• Services Bureau Staff Directory

8. Who should I go to first?

You should take a complaint about an officer to his/her Section or Bureau Commander. If he or she is not available, ask for the on-duty shift supervisor. If the complaint is against a supervisor, contact the Bureau Commander or Office of the Chief of Police.

9. I want to take this all the way to the top. Will the chief of police know?

He will. The Chief of Police gets copies of all complaints against officers. Each officer is notified as well.

10. Do I have to complain in person?

No, but normally a more thorough investigation can be completed if the complainant is able to be interviewed in person.

11. I'm under 18. Do I have a right to complain?

Yes. Just bring one of your parents or guardians in with you.

12. What will happen to the officer?

That will depend on what he/she did. If the officer's (or other employee's) actions were criminal he/she would be dealt with like any other citizen. If the actions were improper, but not criminal, he/she will be disciplined.

13. How thoroughly will you really investigate?

Very thoroughly. We want to find out where we went wrong. If the conduct was lawful and proper, then we want to explain that to the citizen. Additionally, if a person intentionally makes a false complaint, we want to find out and take the appropriate legal action.