Extra Patrol | Complaints | FAQ | Animal Control

COMPLAINTS IN GENERAL

The police department accepts all complaints alleging an act or acts, which if proven true, would be a violation of departmental regulations, City of Reno policy, or a violation of any applicable civil or criminal statute or lawful regulation, including racial profiling.

COMPLAINT PROCESS

A citizen who wishes to make a complaint against any member of the Reno Police Department should contact the department by telephone at (903)785-1744, or in person at 160 Blackburn Street. If possible you will be referred to the employee's immediate supervisor. In the absence of the immediate supervisor, you will be referred to any available supervisor. Citizens may also file a complaint directly with the Chief of Police. Except in extenuating circumstances, complaints need to be made as soon as possible after incident occurred.  For action to be taken against a police employee, a complaint must be made in writing. If you are at the police department, you will be asked to make a signed, notarized statement explaining details of the complaint. You will receive a copy of your statement as verification that the complaint was made. If you are unable to come to the police station. you will be requested to send a signed letter of explanation to the Chief of Police. You will receive a letter acknowledging that your complaint was received.
 

WHAT HAPPENS TO A FILED COMPLAINT

The written complaint is reviewed by the Chief of Police, or his designate, to ensure that it is valid. If it appears that further investigation is warranted a special investigator will be assigned to investigate the matter in detail. When it is discovered that an infraction has occurred the accused employee is notified of the complaint and must respond to the allegations through a special written report. Other personnel or citizens may be interviewed as witness to the incident. The Chief of Police reviews the completed investigation and decides the case disposition. The office of the Chief of Police will notify you, in writing, of the final disposition of your complaint. Your complaint is handled with complete confidentiality, and no portion of the investigation is reproduced unless required by law.