Frequently Asked Questions

It is the policy of the Elmira Police Department to investigate complaints against the Department or its employees. This ensures the integrity of the Department while protecting the rights and interests of both citizens and Department employees.

Any person who witnesses or has knowledge of police misconduct may file a complaint with the Elmira Police Department.

You should contact the Department whenever you become aware of conduct by any Department employee that may be improper.

Generally, complaints are filed through the supervisor of the employee involved. If the immediate supervisor is unavailable, another supervisor may take the complaint. The Department uses a standardized form to file all complaints, and the supervisor taking your complaint completes this form. Complaints may also be made directly to the Department's Deputy Chief or the Chief of Police.

Generally, complaints may be filed at Police Headquarters. If you are uncomfortable coming to Police Headquarters we can meet you at another location, such as the offices of the Chemung County Commission on Human Relations.

The Department encourages the resolution of complaints by mediating or explaining the matter whenever possible. Complaints that cannot be resolved through mediation or explanation will be referred for investigation.

Experience has shown that many complaints we have received are due to a lack of knowledge, or misunderstanding, of police policies and procedures. The supervisor taking the information about your complaint will offer to mediate your complaint, which may include:

• an explanation of our policies and procedures;
• discussions with the personnel involved; or
• other efforts to resolve your complaint in a manner that you are satisfied with

If you do not wish to have your complaint mediated, you may request that an internal investigation into your complaint be initiated.

The Chief of Police or his/her designee is responsible for the investigation of complaints against Department employees. The Chief may personally investigate the complaint or assign it to another Department supervisor for investigation.

Every investigation is different. While we recognize that it is important to complete the investigation as quickly as possible our primary goal is to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation.

Every complaint and investigation is personally reviewed by the Chief of Police who makes a finding for each allegation of misconduct.

Yes. After a thorough investigation of the complaint, The Chief of Police will contact you. You will be advised of the investigation's outcome and whether disciplinary action will be taken.