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1. Who can file a complaint?

Anyone who is directly involved or witnesses an incident from which a complaint arises. In the case of juveniles, it is desirable, but not necessary, that the parents be present and/or notified.

2. Whom does one contact to file a complaint?

Complaints should be made to the officer's immediate supervisor, to the on-duty Watch Commander, or to the Internal Affairs Division. Contact the Watch Commander at 310-412-5206 and the Internal Affairs Division at 310-412-5318.

3. How can a complaint be filed?

A complaint may be filed by personally contacting the Police Department at 310-412-5211 and furnishing complete details of the incident, as well as the names of all witnesses or parties involved. The complainant will be requested to write a statement in his/her own handwriting and sign the statement. You will be provided with a copy of your statements for your own record.

While personal contact is desirable, initial complaints may be made by telephone or letter. The complainant is encouraged to make a written statement and remain available to the investigator for a personal interview.

4. What is the policy for Acceptance of Complaint?

It is the policy of the Department that all complaints against the Department or its officers will be accepted, documented, and investigated by a responsible authority.

5. Who will investigate the complaint?

It is the decision of the Chief of Police to assign the investigation to the officer's immediate supervisor, the on-duty Watch Commander or, in more serious cases, the Internal Affairs Division.

6. How thorough will the investigation be?

Our objective is to complete a thorough and impartial investigation which discloses the truth. Every effort will be expended to satisfactorily conclude the investigation. This includes referring the complaint to an outside investigative agency such as the District Attorney's Office when necessary.

7. Who makes the final decision?

The Chief of Police, after reviewing all of the facts, makes the final decision on the validity of the complaint, and when appropriate, the discipline to be administered. The Chief will rely on the investigative results, as well as recommendations furnished by the affected employee's immediate supervisor and Division Commanding Officer.

8. What can happen to the officer?

If the complaint is valid, the discipline may range from written reprimand to dismissal. If the officer's conduct was criminal in nature, the matter is referred to the District Attorney's Office.

9. What can happen to the complaining party?

There are no repercussions as long as the complainant is truthful in regard to the allegations.

10. What about notification?

By law, the results of police personnel investigations are confidential and cannot be disclosed to the public. However, when the investigation is concluded, you will be notified that the investigation of the disposition of the matter.

11. If dissatisfied with the results, what can be done?

If you, as the complainant, feel that your case has not been thoroughly investigated and justice has not been served, you have several options. You may contact your representative in the City Council, the City Administrator or, in some cases, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office or Grand Jury.