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1. What is considered a personnel complaint?

A complaint of wrong doing or inappropriate action on the part of any employee of the Peoria Police Department.

2. How do I file a complaint against a Police Department employee?

When a person has a complaint against a police department employee (sworn or civilian), the complaint may be filed in person, by telephone or by completing the Citizen Commendation/Complaint Form (PDF) and sending it to the Department.

Illinois law (50 ILCS 725/3.8(b)) requires that anyone filing a complaint against a sworn police officer must have the complaint supported by a sworn affidavit. This can be done by using a notary public.

3. What type of complaints will not be taken?

Complaints alleging disagreements on traffic or parking tickets or probable cause for an arrest are examples of complaints that may not be taken since they are best suited for a judicial review and decisions.

4. Will the Police Department employee be told about the complaint?

Yes. As in the case with a potentially punitive process, the accused is afforded the right of knowing what they are accused of and who the accusers are. This is done in fairness to the employee just as it is for any other person.

5. How long will the investigation take?

Whenever possible, investigations will be concluded within 30 days unless unusual circumstances warrant an extension. The Department will make every effort to keep the complainant advised of any delays and the disposition of the investigation.

6. What if the allegations/complaint turns out to be false?

If a complaint is made on a good faith belief of truth and the Department member is cleared, the complaint will be closed without further action. If it is determined the allegation was intentionally false or intended to discredit or embarrass the Department member, you may be subject to criminal charges or a civil lawsuit.

7. What if you're concerned about the disposition of the investigation?

You may contact the Police-Community Relations Committee at 309-494-8450 or email the Community Relations Committee or phone the Chief of Police at 309-494-8335.