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File a Complaint

How to File a Complaint Against a Police Officer

Filing a complaint creates an official record and starts an internal review. Here is how to do it well.

Published October 6, 2026

Last reviewed October 6, 2026.

Before you file

Write down everything while it is fresh: date, time, exact location, what was said and done, and the names, badge numbers and car numbers of the officers. Save any video and the names of witnesses. Get copies of any citation, report number or property receipt.

Where to file

  1. The department itself. Most agencies take complaints through an Internal Affairs or Office of Professional Standards unit. Many accept complaints online, by email, by mail or in person. You can usually file even if you were not the person stopped.
  2. A civilian oversight board, if your city or county has one. These are independent of the department.
  3. Your state's officer standards agency (POST). Many states can investigate serious misconduct and revoke an officer's certification.
  4. Federal civil rights. The U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division accepts reports of civil rights violations at civilrights.justice.gov. Criminal civil rights violations by officers can be reported to the FBI.

What to include

  • A clear, factual timeline in your own words
  • Officer names and badge numbers if you have them, or a description
  • What you want reviewed (use of force, unlawful stop, rudeness, retaliation for filming)
  • Witness contacts and links to any video
  • A request for a written response and the case number

Stick to facts. In some states, knowingly filing a false complaint is a crime.

After you file

Ask for a case or tracking number and the name of the investigator. Follow up in writing. When the case closes, you can request the investigation file under your state's public records law. Many states release closed internal affairs files. Use the CopFax records request generator.

Get it on the record

Send CopFax your video and complaint through our tip form. Documented complaints help the public see patterns that one case alone cannot show.

CopFax is not a law firm and this is not legal advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where do I file a complaint against a police officer?
Start with the department's Internal Affairs or Professional Standards unit. You can also go to a civilian oversight board if one exists, your state's officer standards agency, or the U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.
Can I file a complaint if I was only a witness?
Usually yes. Most departments accept complaints from witnesses and third parties.
Can I get the results of my complaint?
In many states you can request the closed investigation file under the state public records law.