<p>The case is assigned to an OPA investigator for preliminary investigation. This entails gathering evidence, analyzing documentation and video, and interviewing the complainant. </p>
<p>OPA leadership reviews the preliminary investigation and determines the exact allegations by assessing whether any laws or SPD policies would have been violated if the actions alleged are later proven to be true. Allegations might include, for example, excessive use of force, biased policing, or unprofessional behavior. Based on the review of the preliminary investigation, OPA leadership classifies the complaint as one of the following within 30 days of the complaint being filed:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Contact Log: </strong>The allegation either does not involve a policy violation by an SPD employee or there is insufficient information to proceed with further inquiry. OPA takes no action other than to record the information and send a closing letter to the complainant, if applicable. Examples of complaints often classified as Contact Logs include slow police response times, parking ticket disputes, issues with officers from other law enforcement agencies, or crime reports.</li>
<li><strong>Supervisor Action: </strong>The allegation is best addressed through training, communication, or coaching by the employee's supervisor. OPA sends a memo to the employee's supervisor requesting that specific actions be taken. The supervisor has 15 days to complete and return the case to OPA for review. Complaints classified for Supervisor Action generally involve minor policy violations or performance issues.</li>
<li><strong>Investigation:</strong> The allegation, if true, constitutes a serious policy violation or other category of violation OPA is required by law and policy to investigate. OPA will conduct a comprehensive investigation, which generally includes reviewing evidence and conducting interviews with involved parties and/or witnesses. An investigation is followed by a recommended finding and can result in formal discipline.</li>
<li><strong>Expedited Investigation: </strong>The allegation is conclusively disproved by an objective assessment of available evidence. OPA will issue a finding based solely on the intake investigation, without interviewing the named employee. Expedited Investigations are often used to resolve allegations OPA is required by law and policy to investigate, such as excessive force, biased policing, and violations of law. </li>
</ul>