Northern Illinois University
Department of Police and Public Safety

A complaint is an expression of formal discontent or accusation made in a written or verbal form that alleges criminal conduct, misconduct, neglect of duty, corrupt activity, violation of rules or regulations of the police department, or other violation of university or state rules or regulations.

Yes. You may speak to a supervisor about your complaint or the complaint process. After speaking to a supervisor you are still entitled to submit a formal written or online complaint.

Yes. Filing a false report with a law enforcement agency is a criminal offense. Also, the same civil remedies available to citizens are available to police officers.

A police department administrator reviews all complaints. The complaints are then assigned to an appropriate supervisor for investigation and follow-up. Upon completion and review of a thorough investigation, a final disposition is determined.

Yes. You will be notified of the disposition in writing after the investigation is completed.

You may be asked to testify in a criminal court or departmental hearing. Aside from arrests arising from criminal conduct, an employee may be subjected to disciplinary action if found in violation of any rules or regulations.

Complaints may be filed by calling the department, filling out an online complaint form, downloading a complaint form and mailing it to the department, or by visiting the department in person.