It is the policy of Harris County Constable Precinct 3 to courteously receive and investigate complaints concerning its employees.
A person desiring to make a complaint may contact Internal Affairs between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, or any Harris County Constable Precinct 3 supervisor 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Complaints can be taken by phone, letter or in person at the Harris County Constable Precinct 3 office located at 701 W. Baker Road, Baytown, Texas, (281) 427-4792.
Anonymous complaints can be accepted. They are difficult to process and make effective conclusions but Constable Jones takes complaints seriously and an investigation will be initiated on actual facts provided to him.
Precinct 3 has two types of internal affairs investigations.
Criminal. Violation of local, state or federal law.
Administrative. Infraction of agency rules, regulations or policies.
WHAT HAPPENS ONCE A COMPLAINT IS FILED?
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Once a complaint is filed it will be reviewed and assigned a control number.
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The case will then be assigned to an investigator or supervisor for investigation.
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An investigation includes a thorough review of all evidence, including photographs, video tapes, audio tapes and statements.
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All witnesses will be contacted and interviewed.
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All employees will be interviewed and written statements requested.
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The complainant may be asked by the investigator to give a sworn statement.
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The investigator will submit a written report which will be reviewed by several levels of command and finally by the Constable.
The purpose of the investigation is to seek out the facts in a particular situation and to ascertain the truth.
WHAT IS THE OUTCOME?
Once the investigation is complete one of five findings will be determined.
Unfounded. The allegation has no basis of fact or has been disproved through the investigation.
Not Sustained. The allegation can neither be proved of disproved and no further action is to be considered.
Exonerated. The incident occurred but was lawful or proper.
Sustained. The allegation is found to be true and in violation of rules, regulations, policies, procedures or orders of the department.
Policy Failure. The officer's actions were in compliance with all laws and policies; however, a thorough review of all applicable policies and procedures is initiated.
At the conclusion of the investigation the complainant will receive written notice of the investigator's findings.