How to File a Complaint

Complaints against a Police Department employee can be directed to the Stephenville Police Department, Professional Standards Unit, 356 N. Belknap, Stephenville, TX 76401. Texas law requires that all complaints against police officers be in writing and signed by the person making the complaint. Complaints must be made within 30 days of the incident unless special circumstances exist. The person who was wronged must file the complaint; other persons may give statements as witnesses. The informal complaint process is used for issues such as discourteousness. The formal complaint process is utilized to report any official misconduct, dereliction of duty, etc. The Professional Standards Unit will ensure that a thorough investigation of your complaint is conducted. Just as citizens who are arrested must be told the charges against them, a police employee must be given a copy of the complaint before any disciplinary action is taken. When the investigation is completed, you will be notified of the results and action taken.