Complaints / Commendations
Everyone enjoys receiving recognition for their efforts and there is no question that most of the 140 employees of the Turlock Police Department are doing an outstanding job in our fast growing city.We realize that many of our residents would like to know how to compliment our employees for a job well done.
Compliments and Commendations, either verbal or written, are one of the best ways to let our employees know that you appreciate their good work and extraordinary customer service. A commendation for an employee of the Turlock Police Department is most often sent to the Chief of Police. You may also advise the employee's supervisor or a Watch Commander. Your compliments may be made in person, by phone, by e-mail or fax, or through a letter or informal note to the Turlock Police Department.
A compliment or commendation may address any event that you feel demonstrates any effort on the part of the employee that deserves special recognition. This may include such acts as: extraordinary acts, significant life saving measures, or other unusual courtesy or compassion acts.
To send a compliment or commendation by e-mail please address it to Sgt Paul Inderbitzen at pinderbitzen@turlock.ca.us. Sergeant Inderbitzen will ensure that the appropriate employee and supervisor receives the message. All compliments and commendations are formally documented and the affected employees and their supervisors will be notified.
Download a Compliment/Commendation Form (English)
What is a complaint?
A personnel complaint consists of any allegation of misconduct or improper job performance against any department employee that, if true, would constitute a violation of department policy, federal, state or local law.A personnel complaint shall be classified in one of the following categories:
Informal Complaint
A matter in which the complaining party is satisfied that appropriate action has been taken by a department supervisor of rank greater than the accused employee.Formal Complaint
A matter in which the complaining party requests further investigation or which a department supervisor determines that further action is warranted.Guidelines for making a formal complaint
- Your complaint may be sent to a specially trained internal affairs Sergeant who will conduct a thorough and objective investigation.
- You might be asked to help in the investigation by giving a detailed statement about what happened or providing other important information.
- All complaints against law enforcement officers are thoroughly investigated. You will be advised in writing of the outcome of the investigation.
- If our investigation shows that a crime might have been committed, a separate criminal investigation may be initiated. You might be asked to participate in an interview with the criminal investigator and may be asked to testify in court.
- If our investigation shows that the complaint is unfounded or that the officer acted properly, the matter will be closed.
- All disciplinary hearings shall be closed to the public unless the accused officer requests an open hearing.
- It is unlawful to provide information which you do not believe to be true and could result in criminal charges being brought against you for providing false information to authorities.
- You can file your complaint in person 24 hours a day 7 days a week. You may also file your complaint in writing, by e-mail, or by telephoning the Turlock Police Department. The Professional Standards Sergeant does not accept formal complaints. Formal Complaints should be left with the on duty watch commander or records personnel.
- You can also call the Professional Standards and Training Sergeant at 209-668-5550 ext. 6645 with any additional information or questions about an ongoing or pending case.
Contact Sgt Paul Inderbitzen at pinderbitzen@turlock.ca.us
Download a Criticism/Complaint Form (English)
Download a Criticism/Complaint Form (Spanish)