How are cases closed?

After a case has been investigated and reviewed, it is given one of five dispositions:

  • Sustained: There is enough evidence to prove the allegations.
  • Not Sustained: The evidence neither proves nor disproves the allegations.
  • Unfounded: The incident either did not happen, or the officer was not involved.
  • Exonerated: The incident occurred, but the officer acted properly.
  • Policy Failure: The evidence supports a finding of misconduct, but the actions of the officer were consistent with policy. Or the evidence does not support a finding of misconduct, but the actions of the officer were in violation of policy.

Show All Answers

1. How do I file a complaint?
2. What is the law regarding making a complaint on a police officer?
3. What does the Department do with a complaint?
4. How are cases closed?
5. What happens when a complaint is sustained?
6. How are the people involved notified?