Frequently Asked Questions
How do I file a Complaint?
You can file a complaint in writing, by telephone, via fax, on-line, or by visiting our office in person.
Is there a time limit?
Yes. You have 90 days from the time of the incident to file your complaint.
Is there a cost involved?
There is no charge for using the services of the Office of the Community Ombudsman.
Can I compliment an officer?
Yes. Just use the on-line form and check
"Commendation".
How do I file a Commendation?
You can file a commendation for an officer in writing, by telephone, via fax,
on-line,
or by visiting our office in person.
How is the investigation handled?
When you contact our office, details of your complaint will be assigned to an
investigator for investigation. After a thorough investigation, the ombudsman
will issue a finding and you will be notified of the outcome. Refer to our
Process Flow Chart for more
information.
Will I know the results?
Yes. You will be contacted in writing once the investigation is completed.
What problems does the ombudsman deal with?
If you feel an employee of the Boise Police Department, Airport Police, Boise
City Parking Enforcement, or Boise City Code Enforcement did not treat you properly
or violated a policy, you may contact our office with your concerns.
Are there matters that cannot be investigated?
The ombudsman has jurisdiction regarding Boise City law enforcement agencies
and cannot investigate complaints outside his jurisdiction.
Can the ombudsman get my charges dropped?
The ombudsman's office cannot give legal advice or assist with a person's criminal
defense.
What if I have a concern or want to ask a question?
The ombudsman is ready to answer any question a person might have about Boise
law enforcement activities. This is called an "Inquiry".
Can I access the Boise Police Department's Policy Manual?
Yes. The Boise Police Department's policy manual is
available on their website at
http://www.cityofboise.org/Departments/Police/PDF/2005redactedpolicymanual.pdf
What if I have already filed a complaint with the Boise Police Department or
the Boise Airport Police?
If you filed a complaint with either the Boise Police Department or the Airport
Police Department before contacting the Office of the Community Ombudsman, we ask
that you wait until the police department has completed their investigation into
your complaint. Once you receive notice that the police department has closed your
case, and if you are not satisfied with the outcome of their investigation, you
have 30 days in which to file an Appeal with the Office of the Community Ombudsman.
 What can I expect if I come into contact with a police officer?
The Office of the Community Ombudsman and the Boise City Police Department created a publication,
as a joint project, to help answer the question of what to expect if you come into contact
with a police officer. Please click on the picture or the following link to download a copy
of this brochure:
What to Expect-Understanding the Law and Police Procedure
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