Complaints

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The Department is committed to providing exemplary service in a professional manner that ensures all citizens and visitors a safe and secure environment. Police officers are asked to exercise their best judgement under stressful situations, often with limited information and time constraints. However, officers must be courteous, professional, and observe the rights of all citizens while performing their duties.

If a citizen believes an officer or employee has engaged in misconduct, a complaint may be filed. It is our policy to thoroughly investigate all complaints against the Department or its employees. This ensures department integrity while protecting the rights and interests of both citizens and employees.

The Complaint Process

Texas State Law (Government Code 614.022) requires that all complaints against police officers be in writing and signed by the person making the complaint. Just as citizens who are arrested must be notified of the charges against them, police officers must be given copies of complaints before any disciplinary action may be taken. The person who claims to be aggrieved must make the complaint; other persons may give statements as witnesses.

Please note: Traffic ticket issues or differences of opinion between officers and citizens over the issuance of the traffic ticket will not be investigated unless there is a specific allegation of misconduct against members of the Department.

Complaints are classified by the type of complaint (Service or Personnel) and scope of complaint (Major or Minor). Service complaints are about the service or lack of service received from the Department. Generally, they are not directed towards a specific employee. Personnel complaints are about a specific employee's performance or actions.

Personnel complaints are further classified as either Major or Minor by the Office of Professional Standards. Minor complaints are handled by the employee's immediate supervisor. Major complaints are investigated by the Office of Professional Standards with assistance from the Criminal Investigation Division if the complaint is criminal in nature.

Complaint Form

Complaints are made by filling out a Complaint Form (PDF). If the form does not appear, right click on the blue "Complaint Form" link, download and then open the download. The forms must be printed, completed, notarized, and returned in person to the Texas City Police Department. The complaint will be given to the OPS for review and investigation. Most complaints are investigated and resolved within 14 business days. Extensions may be granted for extenuating circumstances. Complainants can expect to be advised on the outcome of the investigation in writing within 45 days of receipt of the complaint.

Case Dispositions

Documented dispositions refer to counseling, training, verbal reprimand, or no action arising from minor complaints.

Unfounded. The allegation is false or did not occur.

Exonerated. The alleged incident did occur, but the officer’s actions were lawful and within departmental policy.

Not Sustained. The evidence is insufficient to either prove or disprove the allegation(s).

Sustained. The evidence is sufficient to prove allegation(s).  Administrative allegations are sustained based upon the preponderance of the evidence.    

Actions against an employee for sustained misconduct may range from counseling or retraining to suspension or termination. Consideration is given to the seriousness of the misconduct and the employee's historical performance within the Department.

Unfounded Complaints. Complaints must be supported by sufficient evidence. If there is not sufficient evidence to sustain the complaint, the officer is notified and continues their tour duty.

False Complaints. People who intentionally make false complaints or allegations violate Chapter 37 of the Texas Penal Code. Texas law provides punishment for an individual who makes a False Report to a Peace Officer that is material to a criminal investigation. The Texas City Police Department provides this information to avoid retaliation against police officers or department staff.