When a complaint is received, it is assigned either to the affected member's Bureau or to the Internal Affairs Office. Statements will be taken from the complainant, witnesses and the subject member.

All complaints against members are investigated provided the complaint contains sufficient factual data to warrant an investigation.

The Bureau Commander reviews the investigator's reports, discuss the facts of the case with other supervisors as needed and recommend a resolution of the complaints. Complaints may be sustained, not sustained, unfounded, exonerated or deferred for further investigation.

When the Bureau Commander sustains a complaint against a member, they also recommend corrective action to the Sheriff. Corrective action can range from remedial training to termination.

In addition, the State Attorney's Office reviews any complaint where there is a possibility a member may be involved in violation of state law. Violation of federal law will be referred to the appropriate federal agency.

Members have the right to review all complaints and witness statements prior to final resolution.

All investigations remain confidential until finalized. No participant including complainants, investigated member, investigators or witnesses will disclose any information regarding the investigation until the investigation is concluded and final discipline is rendered.

Members have the right to representation while giving a formal statement. Members will not be discharged, disciplined, demoted, denied promotion, transferred, re-assigned or otherwise discriminated against concerning their employment or threatened with any such treatment by reason of their exercise of rights.

Members must be protected against false allegations of misconduct. This is best accomplished by consistently conducting thorough, fair and objective investigations. Persons who knowingly make a false complaint may be subject to criminal prosecution and / or civil action.