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

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.

Caution: An in-person signature or notary is required to file complaints against Virginia State Police 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.