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1. Does the department want complaints?

No department likes to receive complaints, but if this department or any of its members have failed to perform their duties fairly or properly, we want to know, this is how problems are remedied and services improved.

2. Will you investigate my complaint?

The Greenville Police Department (GPD) will investigate all complaints, against the GPD or its members. As per the agreement between the City of Greenville and The Greenville Patrol Officer's Association, Section 7.3, states the GPD shall require that all public complaints received against a bargaining unit employee not be anonymous. The Greenville Police Department has the right to investigate any serious anonymous or unsigned complaint, but if no substantiating evidence is discovered, the complaint shall be considered unfounded.

3. Who should I go to first?

The most efficient way to make a complaint is to come to the police station (between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m., if possible) and tell the dispatcher that you would like to make a complaint. The dispatcher will put you in contact with the proper person, based upon a procedure established by the department.

4. Do I have to complain in person?

No, complaints will be accepted by mail or phone, but the employee completing the report may need to get statements and other information from you. Therefore, it is more efficient for the person to come to the station.

5. If I am under 18 years old, do I still have a right to complain?

Yes, but we prefer that you bring a parent/guardian with you when you come to make a complaint.

6. Will I have to write out my complaint?

The Division Commander or Officer-in Charge of the watch is responsible for completing a Public Complaint Form. However, you may be asked to complete a written statement.

7. How closely will you investigate my complaint?

Very closely. We want to find out what went wrong, if anything, and correct the problem so our working relationship with the public can be restored.

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

Not if you are telling the truth. Prosecution may be considered in cases where the complaint is a malicious or false allegation. It would be legally improper and unethical to even attempt to bring charges against a person who has filed a complaint in good faith.

9. What will happen to the officer?

What happens to the officer depends on the circumstances of the complaint. The Greenville Police Department has a discipline policy, which outlines the types of discipline that can be given to a member of the department. The Chief of Police or his designee may contact you when the investigation is completed.

10. What if I am not satisfied with the investigation?

If you are not satisfied with the results of the investigation, you may contact the City Safety Director, who is the next step above the Chief of Police in the command structure. Other options available are the Mayor, your representative on City Council, or, if applicable, the City of County Prosecutor or a private attorney.

11. Test Question

Test Answer Disorderly Conduct