Questions about how the El Paso Police Department handles excessive force complaints prompted them to clarify how complaints against officers can be filed and who can file them.

Complaints about EPPD officers using unnecessary force has grown steadily over the last few years climbing from 57 in 2018 to 107 in 2023. Almost 700 complaints have been filed since 2018 … only 35 were upheld.

EPPD recently explained the process of filing a complaint and what happens when someone does. The process is pretty simple, contact EPPD Internal Affairs and file the complaint form.

A formal complaint may be lodged with Internal Affairs or with any supervisor in the police department. A formal complaint is a written allegation against an employee of the Department that could result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination. State law requires that complaints against police officers be in writing and signed by the person making the complaint. – elpasotexas.gov

Who Can File A Complaint?

Anybody over 18 claiming to have been abused or the legal guardian of a minor claiming abuse. You cannot file if you only witnessed the incident, don’t have personal knowledge of it or are filing for someone else.

You can download the form here. Once completed and notarized, send it to  PDIAD@elpasotexas.gov.

How Do I Contact Internal Affairs?

Internal Affairs Division
2417 E Yandell
(915) 212-0157

READ MORE: EPPD Has A Fleet Of Drones

What Happens When You File A Complaint?

Once a complaint is in, Internal Affairs looks it over and then sends it to a review board or the officer’s supervisor. The review board is made up of the assistant Chief, 6 civilians and 6 sworn EPPD personnel who have unlimited investigative powers.

If they decide a complaint is valid, they’ll advise the Chief as to what action should be taken against the officer(s). Possible actions include termination but, since 2018, no accused officers have been fired.

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