Engage in Our Process
Submit a Complaint
- Use the Panel's Complaint Form to submit a complaint.
- Staff can assist in filling out the complaint form. Call 703-324-2502 for assistance.
- Submit the complaint to the Panel via email, U.S. Mail, or in person.
- The Panel is required to forward all Complaints to the FCPD upon receipt.
The FCPD Investigates the Complaint
- The FCPD will conduct an investigation into the complaint if it has not already been investigated.
- The FCPD notifies the complainant of the findings of the investigation.
- The complainant may request that the Panel review their complaint after the FCPD investigation is complete.
The Panel Reviews the Completed FCPD Investigation
- The Panel review process begins when a complaint alleging abuse of authority or serious misconduct is submitted regarding a completed FCPD investigation.
- Each Panel Member reviews the completed FCPD investigation file, which may include officer and witness interviews, and in-car and body worn camera video footage.
- The Panel holds a public Review Meeting to determine whether the investigation is accurate, complete, thorough, objective, and impartial.
- The complainant may appear at the Review Meeting to give reasons why they are unsatisfied with the completed FCPD investigation into their complaint.
- The Panel issues a public report with its findings to the complainant, the Board of Supervisors, the Chief of Police, and the Independent Police Auditor.
