Commitment to Trust, Accountability, and Transparency

Trust, accountability, and transparency are at the core of the Chula Vista Police Department’s mission. We take every complaint about department service or member conduct seriously and investigate each one thoroughly.

Our policies, along with federal, state, and local laws, municipal and county rules, and other governing documents, require us to accept, objectively investigate, and address all complaints of misconduct.

We understand that reporting misconduct can be difficult. Our policy ensures that anyone reporting an issue can do so without fear of reprisal or retaliation. 

How to Submit a Complaint

Complaints may be submitted:

• Submit a complaint online – Fill out our secure online form.

• In person – Visit the department lobby at 315 Fourth Avenue, Chula Vista, CA 91910

• Through an officer or supervisor – If you are in the field, you can provide your complaint directly to a department member.

• By phone – Call our non-emergency line at (619) 691-5151.

How Complaints Are Handled

When a formal complaint is made, a supervisor evaluates whether further action is necessary. Investigations may be conducted by:

• A supervisor of higher rank than the member involved, or

• The Professional Standards Unit, depending on the seriousness and complexity of the case.

Complaint Classifications

Formal complaints are classified into one of the following categories, listed from most to least severe:

• Sustained: Evidence confirms the act occurred and constituted misconduct

• Not Sustained: Insufficient evidence to confirm or refute the complaint

• Unfounded: The alleged act did not occur or did not involve department members; frivolous complaints are included here

• Exonerated: The act occurred but was lawful, justified, or proper.

The tables and charts below summarize the outcomes of incidents leading to formal complaints. Note that one incident may result in multiple complaints.

Legal Information

Please note that California law establishes the following:

1. Complainants receive written notice of complaint disposition

2. Police departments may disclose statistical data on complaints without identifying officers

3. Names of officers and details of investigations may be confidential, as limited by law

(California Penal Code sections 832.7 and 832.8, California Evidence Code sections 1043 and 1046)