How to file a complaint

 

Providing police services can often

be a very difficult and complex job.

 

     The Ewing Police Department recognizes that mistakes may be made and the actions of our officers may fall short of expectations. The Ewing Police Department has established rules and regulations and standard operating procedures governing the professional and personal conduct of employees and acceptable work performance standards. These guidelines are designed to protect the well-being and the rights of all citizens and employees. The Office of Professional Review will thoroughly investigate all reports of misconduct by officers regardless of the source. Anyone who files a complaint against an officer will be treated with courtesy and respect.

 

     Please refer to the brochure at the bottom of this page entitled Complaint Procedures Brochure for more information.

 

To make a complaint you may:

 

     Call the Office of Professional Review at (609) 882-1313 Ext. 5576 to speak to a representative Monday through Friday, between 8:30 am and 4:00 pm. After 4:00 pm leave a message. You will receive a return call during business hours from our office.

 

     Make your complaint in person at police headquarters at any time or write to the Commanding Officer of the Office of Professional Review located at:

 

Ewing Police Department

Office of Professional Review/Internal Affairs Bureau

2 Jake Garzio Drive

Ewing, NJ 08628

 

Please refer to the document at the bottom of this page entitled Complaint Against Police Personnel Form to document complaints against officers.

 

Please include as much of the following information

as you can remember:

• Date, time, and location of the incident

• Name(s) and badge number(s) of the member(s) involved

• Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of any witnesses

• Circumstances of the incident 

Corrective action

 

     If the investigation indicates the officer has committed a violation, corrective action commensurate with the severity of the violation will be taken. Mitigating circumstances may be considered by the Chief of Police in determining appropriate penalties. Action taken may involve:

• Counseling

• Remedial training

• Oral reprimand 

• Fine

• Voluntary surrender of time off in lieu of other action

• Written reprimand 

• Suspension 

• Reduction in rank 

• Termination 

     After an investigation is completed, discipline is administered directly by the Chief of Police.  In the event the member requests a disciplinary hearing, the complainant and witnesses may be called to testify.  Complainants will be notified in writing by the Office of Professional Review when the complaint has been resolved, however the exact discipline imposed is a confidential personnel matter and will not be revealed to the complainant. The Ewing Police Department has established procedures for members to follow in filing their appeals, just as it has established procedures to fairly and honestly investigate citizens' complaints.