Question: If a citizen’s complaint is filed against an officer, how should you, as a police supervisor, handle the complaint? Should documentation of the complaint become public knowledge? Why, or why not?

Expert answer

As a police supervisor, when a citizen's complaint is filed against an officer, it is crucial to handle the situation promptly, thoroughly, and in a professional manner. The following steps can serve as a general guideline for handling such complaints:

1. Acknowledge and document the complaint: Once a citizen's complaint is received, it is important to acknowledge its receipt and document the details of the complaint accurately. This includes recording the complainant's name, contact information, nature of the complaint, date, time, and any supporting evidence or witnesses, if available.

2. Initiate an internal investigation: The next step is to initiate an internal investigation into the allegations made in the complaint. This typically involves assigning an impartial investigator who has no personal or professional bias towards the officer or complainant involved. The investigator should have the necessary expertise and authority to conduct a fair and thorough investigation.

3. Preserve confidentiality and privacy: Throughout the investigation process, it is crucial to maintain the confidentiality and privacy of both the complainant and the officer involved. This helps protect the integrity of the investigation and ensures the safety and well-being of all parties. Publicly disclosing the complaint may potentially harm the reputation and privacy of those involved before the investigation is concluded.

4. Conduct a fair and impartial investigation: The investigator should gather all relevant evidence, interview witnesses, review any available audio or video recordings, and obtain statements from all parties involved. It is essential to approach the investigation objectively, without any preconceived notions or biases.

5. Determine the validity of the complaint: Based on the evidence collected, the investigator should make a determination regarding the validity of the complaint. This determination should be based on facts, adherence to departmental policies and procedures, and applicable laws. If the complaint is found to be unsubstantiated, it is important to communicate the findings to the complainant and the officer involved.

6. Take appropriate action: If the complaint is found to be valid, appropriate disciplinary action should be taken against the officer involved. The severity of the misconduct and any previous disciplinary record should be taken into account when determining the appropriate course of action. The goal is to maintain public trust and hold officers accountable for any misconduct.

Regarding the documentation of the complaint becoming public knowledge, it is essential to consider various factors. While transparency is vital for fostering public trust and accountability, it is also necessary to balance it with the privacy rights and safety concerns of the complainant, the officer, and any witnesses involved. Generally, it is advisable to exercise discretion and refrain from making the complaint public until the investigation is completed and a determination has been made. This allows for a fair and impartial assessment of the complaint without unduly influencing public opinion or jeopardizing the integrity of the investigation.

However, it is important to note that public access to information, including complaints against officers, may vary depending on local laws, departmental policies, and the jurisdiction's guidelines on public records. In some cases, when the investigation is concluded and appropriate action has been taken, limited information about the complaint and its outcome may be disclosed to the public to maintain transparency and accountability.

Ultimately, the handling of a citizen's complaint should prioritize fairness, thoroughness, and accountability while considering the privacy and safety concerns of all parties involved. The precise procedures and guidelines for handling complaints may vary among jurisdictions and police departments, and it is important to adhere to the specific guidelines established by the respective governing bodies.