Professional Standards
The Watsonville Police Department is committed to providing the best possible service to the members of the Watsonville community.
Police Officers are far more available and visible than any other "symbol" of government authority. Police activities and those who work in the police profession are convenient targets for a wide assortment of allegations-some valid, some completely false and a great many in between. The Watsonville Police Department acknowledges its responsibility to investigate all complaints regarding police activities or its employees.
In our endeavor to continue our high professional standards the Police Department will investigate all complaints promptly, fairly and thoroughly in order to correct a legitimate grievance or equally as important to protect the reputation of an employee who has done his/her job correctly.
The Police Department will make every effort to improve the understanding and communication between the Police Department and the community we serve.
Fair and impartial law enforcement which respects the dignity of all individuals is essential and they are the tools by which we will instill your confidence in your Police Department.
What if I want to make a complaint?
If you believe a member of the Watsonville Police Department has committed an act of misconduct, you may ask to speak to a supervisor. The supervisor will discuss the matter with you and may be able to resolve the issue immediately to your satisfaction.
You may also choose to file a formal complaint. Certain complaints may need to be handled formally. In these cases you are encouraged to come to the Police Department and fill out the complaint in person.
What will happen to my complaint?
If a supervisor handles your complaint informally, the matter will be discussed with the involved member. The supervisor will provide the member with correction, guidance, or training as necessary. The supervisor may simply explain your position, so that similar instances may be better handled in the future.
If you file a formal complaint, it will be given directly to the Chief of Police for review and assignment to either the member's supervisor or to the Internal Affairs Supervisor. In either case, your complaint will be taken seriously and it will be thoroughly investigated. The Chief of Police will then review the results. If misconduct is found, the member may be disciplined.
Do I have to complain in person?
We prefer to talk to you in person but we will accept an initial complaint by telephone or a letter. However for an in depth investigation we will require an interview in person.
If I'm under 18, do I still have the right to complain?
Yes, just bring one of your parents, your legal guardian, or a responsible adult with you to the Police Department.
Will anything happen to me if no misconduct is found?
No, simply tell the truth about the incident in question.
What will happen to the member?
That will depend on what was done and what the circumstances were at the time. If the actions were improper or criminal, the member will be disciplined. If criminal charges are forthcoming the member will be prosecuted by the District Attorney's Office.
Will I be notified when the investigation is completed?
You will receive a letter at the conclusion of the investigation from the Chief of Police. You will be informed of the outcome of the investigation.
Partnership 
