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The University of Texas System Police Department at SFA is committed to investigating and promptly addressing allegations of employee misconduct or criticism, whether initiated by citizens or department members. To foster trust between the police and the community, a complaint process is in place to protect the public from improper conduct, the department from damaging employees, and employees from unjust accusations.
Investigations are conducted using recognized techniques to ensure impartiality and fairness. Complaints can be submitted by letter, phone or in person, but Texas law requires formal complaints be in writing and signed by the complainant, either through a letter or the department’s complaint form.
Note: A disagreement over the validity of a traffic citation or point of law is not a complaint and should be resolved in the court that has jurisdiction.
Submitting a formal complaint
To submit a formal complaint:
- contact a police supervisor or any UTS-SFA police department employee and ask for a citizen's written complaint form
- or send a notarized letter to SFA's chief of police.
Your written statement must be signed, detailed and specific. Your complaint will be investigated quickly and with the utmost integrity.
Receiving a copy of written complaint
Texas law requires the police employee be equipped with a copy of the written complaint in order to respond to allegations. Procedures are in place to prevent retributions for initiating a legitimate complaint.
You will receive a receipt of your complaint containing a control number for tracking purposes.
Submitting a complaint by phone
If you call with a complaint or don't complete the written process right away, we will send you a letter reminding you to provide a written statement to make the complaint official.
If your complaint involves physical injury
If your complaint involves physical injury that required medical attention, you may be asked to sign a waiver to release your medical records and provide photographs of injuries.
Investigation results
Complaint dispositions
Complaint dispositions that may be reached at the conclusion of the investigation include:
- Exonerated
- The employee's actions were lawful and proper.
- Unfounded
- The incident did not occur or the employee was not involved.
- Sustained
- The investigation concluded that the incident occurred, the employee's actions were inappropriate or unlawful and administrative disciplinary action was taken.
- Disciplinary action may include:
- oral reprimand/counseling
- training
- written reprimand
- suspension
- demotion
- termination
- or criminal charges may be filed if a criminal activity complaint is sustained.
- Disciplinary action may include:
- The investigation concluded that the incident occurred, the employee's actions were inappropriate or unlawful and administrative disciplinary action was taken.
- Not sustained
- Evidence failed to prove or disprove the allegations.