How to File a Police Misconduct Complaint in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties

If you believe you were mistreated, abused, or unlawfully targeted by law enforcement, filing a police misconduct complaint is often the first step toward accountability. Many people in Riverside, San Bernardino, and Fontana are unsure where to start or what the process actually involves.

This guide explains how to file a police misconduct complaint in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties, what to expect after filing, and when it may be time to consider legal action beyond an internal complaint.

What Counts as Police Misconduct?

Police misconduct can take many forms. Common examples include:

• Excessive or unnecessary use of force
• Unlawful arrest or detention
• Racial profiling or discriminatory treatment
• False reports or evidence tampering
• Sexual misconduct or harassment
• Retaliation for exercising your rights
  
  

If an officer’s actions violated department policy, your constitutional rights, or state or federal law, you may have grounds to file a complaint.

Step 1: Identify the Correct Law Enforcement Agency

Complaints must be filed with the agency that employs the officer involved. This may include:

• Riverside Police Department
• Riverside County Sheriff’s Department
• San Bernardino Police Department
• San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department
• Fontana Police Department

If you are unsure which agency was involved, review any citation, police report, or badge information you were given at the time of the incident.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Information

Before filing your complaint, collect as much information as possible, including:

• Date, time, and location of the incident
• Names or badge numbers of officers involved (if known)
• Patrol car numbers or descriptions
• Witness names and contact details
• Photos, videos, or medical records
• Any police reports or citations

The more detailed your complaint, the harder it is for the agency to dismiss or minimize.

Step 3: File the Complaint

Filing in Riverside County

Most Riverside County agencies allow complaints to be filed:

• Online through the department’s website
• In person at a police station
• By mail using an internal affairs complaint form

Filing in San Bernardino County and Fontana

San Bernardino County and Fontana follow similar processes, typically requiring:

• A written statement submitted online or in person
• Identification information (though anonymous complaints may be accepted)
• A clear description of the alleged misconduct

After submission, you should receive a complaint or reference number.

Step 4: Understand What Happens Next

Once filed, the complaint is usually reviewed by Internal Affairs or a Professional Standards Unit. The agency may:

• Open an internal investigation
• Interview officers and witnesses
• Request additional information from you
• Ultimately determine whether the complaint is “sustained,” “not sustained,” or “unfounded”

Importantly, internal investigations are conducted by the department itself. This means the process is not always neutral or transparent.

Step 5: Know the Limits of Internal Complaints

Filing a complaint can create a record and may lead to disciplinary action, but it does not:

• Compensate you for injuries or losses
• Force policy changes
• Hold the department financially accountable
• Prevent future misconduct in many cases

If your complaint is ignored, delayed, or dismissed, you may still have legal options.

When to Consider a Police Misconduct Lawsuit

If you suffered physical harm, emotional distress, wrongful arrest, or civil rights violations, filing a lawsuit may be the only way to achieve meaningful accountability. A civil lawsuit can seek:

• Financial compensation
• Court-ordered policy changes
• Independent review of officer conduct
• Public accountability beyond internal discipline

An attorney can evaluate whether your experience rises to the level of a civil rights violation under California or federal law.

Taking the Next Step

Filing a police misconduct complaint in Riverside or San Bernardino Counties is often just the beginning. While the complaint process can document wrongdoing, it is not always designed to protect victims or deliver justice.

If you believe your rights were violated, speaking with a police misconduct attorney can help you understand your options and determine whether legal action is appropriate based on the facts of your case.