Policy Complaints

The Police Accountability Board reviews Berkeley Police Department policies, practices, and procedures. A member of the community who believes that a policy, practice, or procedure is insufficient or improper can initiate a review by the Board. The Office of the Director of Police Accountability (DPA) accepts policy complaints and brings them before the Board.

How to file a complaint about a Berkeley Police Department policy

To Obtain a Policy Complaint Form

1. Contact the DPA Office by phone, email, or fax, to request a form, OR
2. Come to the DPA Office to pick up the form, OR
3. Download the form here.

To Return the Policy Complaint Form

Mail, email, fax, or bring the completed form to the DPA Office.

Policy Review Process

• The Director will agendize the Policy Complaint for a meeting of the Board. You will be notified of the meeting date and time and, if you wish, may attend the meeting to address the Board and answer their questions.
• If the Board agrees that a policy review is warranted, they may take appropriate action, including initiating an investigation or establishing a subcommittee to review the policy.
• The Board may recommend that the Police Department adopt or revise a policy. It will send the recommendation to the Chief of Police or City Manager, who will consider whether to implement it.
• The Board could also decide that no policy change is warranted.

If you have any questions about this process, contact the Office of the Director of Police Accountability.