The Police Department has formal procedures for investigating complaints. These procedures ensure fairness and protect the rights of both citizens and law enforcement officers. If an internal affairs complaint is filed against an officer in the department, there are certain aspects of the process in which the complainant should be aware.

The complaint will be sent to a superior officer or a specially trained internal affairs officer who will conduct a thorough and objective investigation. The complainant might be asked to help in the investigation by giving a detailed statement about what happened or to provide other important information. All complaints against law enforcement officers are thoroughly investigated. The complainant will be advised in writing of the outcome of the investigation.

If an internal affairs investigation shows that a crime might have been committed, the County Prosecutor will be notified. The complainant might be asked to testify in court. If an internal affairs investigation results in an officer being charged with a violation of departmental rules, the complainant might be asked to testify in a departmental hearing. If an internal affairs investigation shows that the complaint is unfounded or that the officer acted properly, the matter will be closed.

All disciplinary hearings are closed to the public unless the defendant officer requests an open hearing.