Complaint Process

Our Commitment to Our Citizens

As a professional public service organization, we are dedicated to preserving the integrity of our department and its members as we go about the business of law enforcement, which expands from community-based policing and crime prevention to crime control. The integrity of our agency depends on the personal integrity and discipline of each employee/member. The complaint process is an integral part of maintaining that integrity and discipline and is a direct reflection of our continuing commitment to excellence. Should you need to make a complaint, be assured your concerns will be treated with respect and professionalism.

The Tequesta Police Department, in accordance with its rules, policies and procedures,will investigate all complaints made against the department or its employees. Complaints should be legitimate in nature, and if proven false, employees have the right to sue for punitive/slanderous damages stemming from false allegations.

Citizen Complaints


  • Addresses any concern or complaint voiced towards a member or an activity of the department.
  • Informal complaints can be anonymous.

The Complaint Process


To file a complaint, please use the attached form and email it to the email address included on the form.
Complaint Form

  • All complaints will be directed to the shift commander or a supervisor on duty.
  • The supervisor will meet in person (if possible) with the complainant(s) and ascertain the nature of the complaint.
  • If the complaint cannot be resolved, the supervisor will obtain a statement of complaint (if complainant is willing).
  • The supervisor will generate an Initial Notice of Inquiry and provide the complainant with a copy of the complaint form.

Types of Complaints


  • Internal Affairs
    • Investigations involving serious breeches of conduct.
    • Usually requires a sworn statement or affidavit from the complainant.
  • Supervisory Review
    • Usually relates to minor misconduct.
    • Often investigated by the affected employee's supervisor.

The Purposes for Internal Investigations


  • Protect the public
  • Protect the department
  • Protect the employee
  • Identify and remove personnel who are unfit to serve our citizens
  • Identify and correct procedural problems

Investigative Conclusion


The Chief of Police will review the investigation and determine which category describes the findings.

Investigative Findings


  • Sustained - Allegations supported by sufficient evidence to justify a reasonable conclusion that the action(s) occurred and were violations.
  • Not Sustained - Insufficient evidence available to prove or dispute allegations. The allegation(s) appeared to have merit, however, there was insufficient evidence to either prove or disprove the allegation(s).
  • Exonerated - Alleged action(s) occurred but were justified, lawful, and proper. Employee acted in compliance with departmental rules and regulations and/or policy and procedures.
  • Unfounded - Allegation(s) are false, did not occur, or not supported by facts. The allegation(s) was without merit and did not occur.
The complainant will be notified and informed of the investigative results, upon approval by the Chief of Police.