About Us

Commendation and Concern

POLICY

It is the policy of the USF St. Petersburg Police Department to investigate all complaints against the department or its employees. This ensures the integrity of the Department while protecting the rights and interests of both citizens and departmental employees.

We view all complaints against police employees very seriously and actively pursue investigations into misconduct. For this reason, you must ensure that your complaint is based on fact and you have provided us with all of the facts to the best of your ability.

COMPLAINT PROCEDURE

In most cases, the member’s supervisor will be charged with investigating the complaint and recommending one of the following dispositions:

  • Sustained: there is substantial evidence to prove the allegation
  • Not Sustained: there is insufficient proof to prove or disprove the allegation
  • Unfounded: the allegation is false
  • Exonerated: the incident occurred but was lawful and proper

For allegations of serious misconduct, an internal affairs investigator may be assigned.

If the complaint is sustained, disciplinary action may consist of counseling, oral reprimand, written reprimand, suspension, or termination

If your complaint was not filed anonymously, you may be notified once the investigation is complete. You will be advised of the finding and action taken; however, you will not be told specific information that would violate the employee’s right to privacy.

SUBMITTING COMMENDATION OR COMPLAINT

  • Commendations and Complaints may be made in person, by telephone or email.

    Commendation and Concern Form



  • Email completed forms to: 
    STP-police@usf.edu

  • Commendation
    • If a USF St. Petersburg PD employee has provided you with a positive experience, we would appreciate hearing from you.

  • Complaint
    • Any person who witnesses, or has direct knowledge of, police misconduct may file a complaint.
    • You may make an anonymous complaint, however it may be difficult to investigate the allegation without being able to contact you.
    • You should contact the Department as soon as practical whenever you witness behavior by any Department member which is a violation of city, state or federal law, involves excessive use of force, or involves discourteous or abusive treatment.
    • Each complaint is read and assigned by the Chief of Police, and will be completely and thoroughly investigated.