About the Complaints Process

Introduction

The Office of Police Oversight (OPO) Complaint Division accepts community feedback about interactions with the Austin Police Department. If anyone has had or has witnessed an interaction with the Austin Police Department (APD) and wants to provide feedback, they can file a complaint or offer a compliment online, over the phone, in person, or by mail. Community members do not have to provide their contact information and can remain anonymous throughout the feedback process. Here is an overview of our complaints process:

1. Submit a Complaint or Compliment

You can submit a complaint or compliment online, by phone, or in person. You do not need to provide your name or contact information.

2. Preliminary Review

Next, OPO complaints specialists review materials, like body camera or dash camera video, and any information the complaint provided to see if a policy violation occurred. After the preliminary review is complete, complainants can choose how to proceed:

  • A complainant can request a full investigation
  • A complainant can request to speak to an officer’s supervisor
  • The complaint can be documented as a community concern or general feedback for APD

3. Preliminary Investigation

If the complaint moves to a full investigation, OPO complaint investigators evaluate the preliminary review, interview the complainant and any witnesses, and determine if a policy violation occurred. A sworn affidavit may be requested.

4. Oversee APD’s Investigation

Complaints staff monitors APD’s investigation, participates in interviews with witnesses and officers, and provides monthly updates to complainants.

5. OPO Closes the Complaint

When APD completes the investigation, OPO complaints staff notifies the complainant of the investigation results, including any discipline issued.