Citizen Complaint Process

The City of Ferndale Police Department strives to provide the highest quality service. As part of this mission, we have established a Citizen Complaint Process to address and assist with any concerns you may have. If you have additional questions regarding this process, please don't hesitate to contact us at
248-541-3650.

‍

The Process

It is the responsibility of the Ferndale Police Department to respond to citizen issues promptly and efficiently. It is also important to be aware that there may be issues that don't offer an immediate resolution. These conflicts include:

• Agency policies
• Environmental requirements
• Public safety practices
• Delivery of service
• Employee conduct

The resolution of these issues is important to the department in order to maintain the highest professional standards.

STEP 1

If your complaint has not been resolved by the employee you first contacted, you may request to speak to the on duty supervisor.  

• This can be done in person or over the phone.  
• If a supervisor is not available immediately, you will have the option to schedule a return phone call or an appointment.

STEP 2

The  supervisor on duty will attempt to resolve your issue. If a resolution has not been met, a Citizen Complaint Form should be filled out and submitted.  

• This is available in person or online. 
• This form will be investigated by the officer’s shift Lieutenant; once completed, it will be reviewed by the Patrol Division Commander and Chief of Police.

STEP 3 

After your complaint is processed, you will be informed of the final disposition by phone and mail. These determinations can include: sustained (sufficient evidence), not sustained (insufficient evidence), exonerated (lawful incident), or unfounded (false allegation). If additional information is desired, our staff will be happy to provide further detail or reevaluate as needed.