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Submitting a Complaint or Commendation
Any individual may file a complaint or commendation regarding the conduct or performance of a Clark County Sheriff’s Office employee by contacting an on-duty supervisor.
Complaints or commendations may pertain to any member of the Sheriff’s Office, including enforcement deputies, administrative staff, or other personnel.
The primary method for initiating a complaint of commendation is by filling out the online form here: Online Reporting
Citizens may also contact the Internal Affairs Unit directly by calling 564.397.2416 or by email at DLCntySheriffIA@clark.wa.gov
Citizens will be asked to complete a written statement outlining the details of their complaint or commendation.
The written statement can be found here:
Caution
Though citizens are highly encouraged to report concerns about employees' conduct, the Sheriff’s Office cautions against knowingly false or malicious allegations against employees. Making a false or malicious allegation to a law enforcement agency may result in civil penalties, and under some circumstances, it may constitute a crime.
Making a false or misleading statement to a public servant: A person who knowingly makes a false or misleading material statement to a public servant is guilty of a gross misdemeanor. "Material statement" means a written or oral statement reasonably likely to be relied upon by a public servant in the discharge of his or her official powers or duties.”
Types of Complaints
The Sheriff’s Office defines the categories of complaints, and categorizes complaints received at its discretion as:
- Minor Complaint: A complaint that deals with a deputy's or other employee’s attitude or demeanor.
- Major Complaint: Complaint of a serious nature which may involve using force, criminal conduct, false arrest, or any other more serious matter.
- Service Complaint: Complaints regarding the level of service delivered. These complaints may involve policies or procedures that are the basis of the complaint.
Investigative Process
Upon receipt of a complaint, the matter is typically referred to the employee’s immediate supervisor or the Internal Affairs Unit for investigation. The process may include contacting and interviewing all parties and witnesses relevant to the allegation.
Once the investigation is completed, the findings are forwarded through the chain of command to Internal Affairs for review. It is the policy of the Sheriff’s Office to complete all investigations within 30 days of receipt. However, this timeline may be extended when necessary to ensure a thorough and comprehensive review.
Due Process for Employees
Employees are afforded certain rights in the investigation and disciplinary phases of investigations. These rights are established by Agency policy, Civil Service rules, collective bargaining agreements (employment contracts), and/or case law.
Once the investigation is approved, one of the following findings will be made:
- Exonerated: The action was within Agency policy or procedure.
- Sustained: The allegation did occur.
- Not Sustained: Insufficient evidence to prove or disprove the allegation.
- Unfounded: The complaint was determined to have no factual basis and did not occur.
- Not Involved: The accused employee was not involved.
If an employee receives discipline because of a complaint, the employee may exercise certain rights, including appeals processes.
Conclusion
The complainant will most likely be notified of the investigation’s outcome by phone, email, or written correspondence.
The Sheriff’s Office values community feedback and welcomes suggestions on how to better serve Clark County residents' needs.