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1. If I have a complaint, who do I talk to? ... and will you really listen?

Certainly! The purpose of any Professional Standards Division is the diligent pursuit of truth. We are committed to that objective, recognizing that our agency's credibility depends upon the community's belief that we can police ourselves. Therefore, you should first contact the Professional Standards Sergeant Aaron Woodard with The Colony Police Department. You will be asked to set up an appointment with them so that the complaint can be discussed. If you wish, you may then file your complaint.

2. But, I want to take this all the way to the top. Will the Chief of Police to know?

Yes, he will. The Chief of Police reviews all complaints against police employees. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

3. Do I have to initially complain in person?

We prefer to talk to you in person, but we will accept a complaint by telephone or letter if necessary. It won't make any difference in the attention we give it. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

4. Is there a time limit for making a complaint?

All complaints should be filed in a timely manner with the Professional Standards Division. Complaints filed more than 30 days after an occurrence decreases the likelihood a complaint will be sustained. Complaints related to traffic stops that do not involve a criminal allegation must be filed within 60 days of the occurrence to be investigated. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

5. Do I have to put my complaint in writing?

The Texas Government Code requires that all complaints against police officers be in writing and signed by the person making the complaint. Just as citizens who are arrested must be notified of the charges against them, the police officer must be provided a copy of a complaint. We have found it's much easier to investigate a written complaint, so we prefer them that way. If there are valid reasons this cannot be done, we'll make other arrangements. For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

6. Can I get in trouble for making a complaint?

Not if what you're telling us is the truth. We wouldn't (and couldn't) bring charges against a person who has acted in good faith. However, citizens should be aware that making a false complaint is a violation of the Texas Penal Code. A person convicted could be punished by a fine and confinement in jail.

7. What are the possible outcomes of the investigation?

Internal investigations will produce one of four findings:

1. Unfounded - Allegation against officer was false or without merit
2. Exonerated - Conduct complained upon did occur but was legal and proper
3. Sustained - Allegation is supported by sufficient evidence
4. Not Sustained - Insufficient evidence to either prove or disprove allegation
   

For further information, contact us at 972-624-3944.

8. What happens if my complaint is sustained?

That will depend on the allegation. When the investigation of a complaint reveals the charges are true and should be sustained against the police employee, the department may take one or more of the following actions depending on the nature of the violation:

• Additional Training
• Performance Counseling
• Suspension or Termination
• Written Reprimand
• Oral Reprimand

For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.

9. What happens if my complaint is not substantiated?

If there is not sufficient evidence to support the allegation, the investigation is closed and no further action taken. For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.

10. Will I be told the results of the complaint?

Yes. As the complainant, you will be notified by mail of the results of the investigation. For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.

11. Will I have to take a polygraph?

In certain cases, you (as the complainant) may be requested to submit to a polygraph examination. The employees involved may also be asked to submit to the polygraph. For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.

12. What if I'm not satisfied with the decision?

We sincerely hope that would never happen. If it did, you may appeal the decision to either the Chief of Police or the City Manager. The Colony Police Department is vitally interested in the welfare of all citizens and in taking action where its employees have proven derelict in their duties or are guilty of wrongdoing. If it becomes necessary for you to make a complaint, you can be assured that it will be given a fair and thorough investigation.

Now, by the same token, if you have occasion to see a police employee doing outstanding work, tell him or us about it. The Colony Police Department is comprised of professional employees dedicated to serving you. For more information, contact us at 972-625-1887.