How to File a Civilian Complaint with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department

According to the Sheriff's Department Civilian Complaint form, you have the right to file a complaint against a police officer for any improper conduct. California law requires the agency to have a procedure for investigating civilian complaints - and you're entitled to a written description of that procedure. Even if an investigation doesn't turn up enough evidence to take action, you still have the right to file and have your complaint investigated.

Any civilian who believes they've been the victim of misconduct by a Sheriff's Department member can file a complaint. The Civilian Complaint form is available at all Sheriff's stations. You can give your complaint to any Department member, and a supervisor will handle it whenever possible.

The same advisory covers recordkeeping. Civilian complaints - along with any related reports or findings - must be retained by the agency for at least five years. If you're documenting a serious issue, this matters: your complaint and the agency's paperwork won't disappear anytime soon.

Practical Tips

• ✓ Write down the basics before you go: dates, times, locations, names (or badge numbers if you have them), and what happened, in plain language.
• ✓ If there were witnesses, note who they are and how they can be reached.
• ✓ Ask for a copy of what you submit, or at least write down who you gave it to and when.
• ✓ Keep your own copies of anything you turn in (photos, medical paperwork, messages, notes).
• ✓ If you’re overwhelmed, bring a trusted person to help you stay organized while you submit the form to a Department member.
• ✓ If the situation is high-stakes, consider getting legal advice before you file - especially if you’re worried about how your statement could be misunderstood.