How to File a Compliment or Complaint about the Pittsburgh Police Department (PA)

Filing Your Compliment or Complaint

This department offers a user-friendly online submission form. You can access it directly through the buttons below.

Share your positive experience or commend a Pittsburgh Police Department officer or employee.

Submit your complaint against a Pittsburgh Police Department officer or employee.

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Citizen Police Review Board Information

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

Contact the Citizen Police Review Board for additional information about how they collect and handle police conduct reports about the Pittsburgh Police Department.

Contact Information

	Address: 816 5th Avenue, Suite 400 Pittsburgh, PA 15219
	Phone: (412) 765-8023
	Website: Citizen Police Review Board

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.

Reporting Access Features for the Pittsburgh Police Department

Below is a summary of the reporting access features available for the Pittsburgh Police Department. These features highlight the available options and potential requirements for submitting your feedback.

Online Submission Form

The Citizen Police Review Board offers an easy online form for filing compliments and complaints about Pittsburgh Police Department officers.

PDF Police Conduct Reporting Form

Download and print the Citizen Police Review Board's PDF reporting form.

Dedicated Webpage for Filing Information

The Citizen Police Review Board has a dedicated webpage detailing how to file a police conduct report.

Homepage Link to Conduct Reporting Information

The Pittsburgh Police Department homepage does not provide a clearly labeled link to information about filing a complaint.

Does Not Accept Anonymous Police Conduct Reports

Caution: The Citizen Police Review Board 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 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 Citizen Police Review Board after a police incident.