Procedure

1. Attempt to see or make arrangements to meet with a supervisor or the Police Chief. If the complaint does not concern an employee, but instead addresses a particular department policy or procedure, please ask to see the Police Chief.
2. If the complaint cannot be resolved by the employee’s supervisor or Police Chief, you will be asked to complete a Citizen Complaint Form which identifies the circumstances, nature and extent of your complaint. The report form requests specific information which the department needs in order to make a thorough investigation.
3. Persons who initiate written complaints shall receive written acknowledgement from the Police Chief or the Chief’s designee.
4. The status of the investigation shall be communicated to the complainant periodically and at its conclusion.
5. Investigations shall be completed within thirty (30) days from the time the written complaint is registered. Exceptions shall only be granted by the Police Chief when extenuating circumstances are present. If the complaint is not resolved to the satisfaction of the complainant, the complainant may either request a meeting with the Police Chief to discuss the matter, or file a written request for a hearing on the complaint with the City Administrator and the Police Commissioner within thirty (30) days of receiving written notification from the Police Chief regarding disposition of the complaint.
6. At the conclusion of each investigation into allegations of misconduct, a conclusion of fact will be designated from one of the following:
   • Unfounded - The allegation is false.
   • Exonerated - The allegation is true but lawful and proper.
   • Not Sustained -There is insufficient evidence to either prove or disprove the allegation.
   • Sustained - The allegation is supported by sufficient evidence and the action violates criminal law and/or department policy.
   • Policy Failure - Policy or lack thereof facilitated the complaint.
   • Withdrawn - The complainant withdraws the complaint prior to the completion of the investigation.
   • Misconduct not based on complaint - The investigation reveals sufficient evidence to indicate other infractions, not based on the original complaint.
7. If the complaint is against the Police Chief, you can meet directly with the Police Chief, or file a formal complaint directly with the City Administrator.