How to Share a Compliment or File a Complaint: Houston Police Officer Feedback Guide

Here’s how to share a compliment or file a complaint against a Houston Police officer. We aim to simplify the process and inform you of potential filing barriers.

Share a Compliment for Outstanding Service

Share positive feedback or commend a Houston Police officer or employee.

Download Compliment Form

Report an issue with this link.

File a Complaint Against a Police Officer

This department lacks an online submission form but offers a PDF form for filing complaints or compliments. Submit your complaint against a Houston Police officers or employee.

Download Complaint Form

Report an issue with this link.

Police Department Staffers: Ready to move beyond basic community feedback forms? Schedule a demo with Sivil to learn about our next-generation case management solutions.

Independent Police Oversight Board Information

This civilian oversight agency collects police conduct reports about the Houston Police Department. We recommend that community members file formal compliments or complaints with this office using the methods mentioned above.

Contact the Independent Police Oversight Board for additional information about how they collect and handle police conduct reports about the Houston Police Department.

What is a Civilian Oversight Agency?

A civilian oversight agency is an independent body that reviews, investigates, or audits the activities of law enforcement agencies. These agencies focus on handling community members' complaints and work to ensure police transparency. They also provide an alternative way for citizens to report issues, helping to build trust between the community and the police.

Community Feedback Features for the Houston Police Department

Below is a summary of the Houston Police Department's community feedback features. These highlight your options and potential requirements for submitting complaints, compliments, and other feedback.

Online Submission Form

The Houston Police Department does not yet offer an online submission form to file compliments and complaints.

Police Department Staffers: Schedule a demo with Sivil to learn about our next-generation case management solutions.

PDF Police Conduct Reporting Form

Download and print the Internal Affairs Office's PDF reporting form.

Dedicated Webpage for Filing Information

The Internal Affairs Office has a dedicated webpage detailing how to file a police conduct report.

Homepage Link to Conduct Reporting Information

The Houston Police Department homepage provides a clearly labeled link to information about filing a complaint.

Does Not Accept Anonymous Police Conduct Reports

Caution: The Internal Affairs Office does not accept anonymous police complaints.

Why do some departments not accept anonymous complaints?
Some police departments require complainants to identify themselves to ensure the complaint is genuine or to follow up on an investigation.

Many departments and oversight agencies, however, do accept anonymous complaints to encourage more people to provide feedback without fear of retaliation.

In-Person Signature or Notary Requirements

Caution: An in-person signature or notary is required to file complaints against Houston Police Department officers.

Why do some departments require complaints to be notarized or filed at a police station?
Some police departments require complaints to be filed at the station or notarized to confirm their authenticity. These rules often stem from legal or departmental policies. However, many departments and oversight agencies do not require in-person or notarized complaints to encourage more feedback and enhance transparency.

I don't want to file in person. What are my alternatives?
If you don’t want to walk into a police station to file in person, you don’t have to go! Instead, consider mailing your complaint (regardless of the policy) using USPS Certified Mail. That way, you can confirm that the department has received your report.

No Filing Deadlines

There is no time limit for filing a complaint with the Independent Police Oversight Board after a police incident.