Citizen Complaints

The Ross Police Department strives to provide the highest caliber service possible to our community. To ensure that the level of service remains as professional and responsive as possible, the Police Department encourages comment as to the performance of its various employees. Should an employee conduct him or herself in other than an exemplary manner, a citizen may, if they so choose, elect to file a formal complaint with the Police Department.

Complaints may be registered in person, by phone, mail, or by email to the Chief of Police. However, in each instance, the complainant will be asked ( but not required ) to provide their name, address, and phone number, the nature of the complaint, the location, date, and time of the alleged incident, the name(s) of the employee(s) involved, and the identity of any independent witnesses. The Chief of Police will be apprised of the complaint at the earliest possible opportunity, and depending upon the nature of the allegations, determine the extent and course of investigation needed.

Personnel Complaints shall be classified in one of the following categories:

Informal - A matter in which the complaining party is satisfied that appropriate action has been taken by a department supervisor of rank greater than the accused employee. Informal complaints need not be documented on a personnel complaint form and the responsible supervisor shall have the discretion to handle the complaint in any manner consistent with this policy.

Formal - A matter in which the complaining party requests further investigation or which a department supervisor determines that further action is warranted. Such complaints may be investigated by a department supervisor of rank greater than the accused employee or referred to the [Internal Affairs Unit] depending on the seriousness and complexity of the investigation.

Incomplete - A matter in which the complaining party either refuses to cooperate or becomes unavailable after diligent follow-up investigation. At the discretion of the Chief of Police, such matters need not be documented as personnel complaints, but may be further investigated depending on the seriousness of the complaint and the availability of sufficient information.

At the conclusion of each investigation into a formal complaint, a finding of fact will be issued with one of the following dispositions:

1.   Sustained - Evidence sufficient to prove allegations.

2.   Not sustained - Insufficient evidence to either prove or disprove allegations.

3.   Exonerated - Officer(s) actions were lawful and proper.

4.   Unfounded - Allegation have no bearing in fact.

Each complainant shall be regularly informed of the status of their complaint, and will also be apprised of the investigation's final disposition. Should a complaint be sustained, corrective action, including potential disciplinary action, will be initiated in accordance with Police Department regulations. Effective and responsive police service requires that the partnership between local law enforcement and the community be as open and strong as possible.

Comments or Concerns

The Ross Police Department is dedicated to excellent service and wants to hear your comments or concerns. Sergeant John Adams leads our team of dedicated officers who provide all aspects of service.

Sergeant Adams (415) 453-1453 ext. 153 or Contact via Email.