It is the responsibility of the Ferndale Police Department to respond to complaints regarding police officer's conduct promptly and efficiently. It is also important to be aware that there may be issues that do not offer an immediate resolution. These complaints may include department professionalism and employee conduct. The resolution of these issues is important to the department in order to maintain the highest professional standards. 

STEP 1 

If the employee you first contacted has not resolved your complaint, you may request to speak to the on-duty Police Department Supervisor.   

1. This can be done in person or over the phone.   
2. If the Police Department Supervisor is unavailable immediately, you can schedule a return phone call or an appointment. 

STEP 2 

The Police Department Supervisor on duty will attempt to resolve your issue. If a resolution has not been met, a Police Conduct Complaint Form can be completed and submitted in person or online. 

3. This form will be investigated by the assigned supervisor; once completed, it will be reviewed by the Patrol Division Commander and Chief of Police. 

STEP 3  

After your complaint is processed, you will be informed of the final disposition by phone and mail. These determinations can include sustained (sufficient evidence), not sustained (insufficient evidence), exonerated (lawful incident), or unfounded (false allegation). If additional information is desired, our staff will be happy to provide further details or reevaluate as needed. 

Step 4 

If you disagree with the findings, an appeal can be filed with the City Manager’s Office to be reviewed by the Civilian Police Advisory Review Board within 21 days of the disposition.