Internal Affairs Unit
The Internal Affairs Unit exists to ensure the highest level of professionalism among the employees of the Oxnard Police Department. A major function is to investigate complaints of misconduct against employees in a fair and objective manner. Each investigation is handled in a thorough and timely fashion. Prompt and fair dispositions of complaints are essential to good discipline and morale, and are also vital to maintaining the respect and confidence of the community.
The Oxnard Police Department is required by law to establish guidelines for the reporting, investigation, and disposition of complaints into misconduct of Department employees. Policy Manual § 1020 outlines the process regarding citizen complaints and administrative investigations (the Policy Manual can be found on the Department website). Misconduct may include:
- Violations of Department policies, rules, regulations, or procedures.
- Neglect of duty.
- Conduct which may reflect unfavorably upon the employee or Department.
- Commission of a criminal offense.
A complaint may be made to a supervisor or above in person, verbally, by completion of a citizen’s complaint form, submission of a written document other than the complaint form, by telephone, or by e-mail. All complaints will be investigated.
When a formal investigation is initiated, it will be conducted thoroughly and expeditiously while maintaining the rights of the employee afforded to him/her within the Peace Officer Bill of Rights (POBOR) (3300-3311 Government Code). POBOR does not allow the Department to share with the complainant the details of the investigation, but the complainant will be notified when the investigation has been completed and the outcome.
The Internal Affairs Unit is also responsible for tracking use of force data. When an officer is involved in a reportable use of force, a supervisor completes a use of force report that is reviewed by the officer’s commander. The use of force report is then reviewed by appropriate Department personnel to ensure the force used is in compliance with Department policy and procedures. A use of force that is found to be outside of policy or procedure may result in training, counseling, or discipline as deemed appropriate.