File a Complaint

What is a Complaint?

The Office of Police Accountability (OPA) processes allegations of misconduct involving Seattle Police Department (SPD) employees. Violations can range from unprofessional behavior to biased policing to excessive force. For OPA consideration, a complaint must allege an SPD employee violated an SPD policy (see SPD’s manual).

Who Can File a Complaint?

Anyone can file a complaint. Although you can file a complaint anonymously, it is helpful if you provide a phone number or email address so an investigator can follow up to obtain additional information that may be crucial to the investigation. We also accept complaints from outside agencies or third parties reporting on behalf of others.

Is Filing a Complaint Safe?

We intend for our process to be safe. You will not be asked about your immigration status. You will not need to speak with the employee you are filing a complaint against.

How do I File a Complaint?


Online SUBMIT A WEB FORM:

Note: a new window will open with your selected form.

File a Complaint

File an Anonymous Complaint

By Email EMAIL US:

opa@seattle.gov

By Phone CALL US:

(206) 684-8797

If your call is directed to the voicemail system, please leave a message and an investigator will get back to you shortly. Please make sure to leave your contact information - preferably your e-mail address - in the message.

In Person VISIT US:

720 3rd Avenue, 18th Floor
Seattle, WA 98104

The OPA office is open Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. If you come to the office to file a complaint, you can complete a form or ask to speak to an available investigator. The office is located separately from Seattle Police Department Headquarters and precincts. Please email opa@seattle.gov if you have any questions.

By Mail SEND US A LETTER:

Office of Police Accountability
P.O. Box 34986
Seattle, WA 98124-4986


If submitting a complaint by mail, please:
Download Complaint Form Download the complaint form


Need Other Resources?

Download our list of frequently requested resources

Office of Police Accountability

Gino Betts, Director
Address: 720 3rd Avenue, 18th Floor, Seattle, WA , 98104
Mailing Address: PO Box 34986, Seattle, WA , 98124-4986
Phone: (206) 684-8797
opa@seattle.gov
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