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Criminal Justice Complaints

dpsst.complaints@dpsst.oregon.gov
Criminal Justice Complaint Line 503 378-2799 or DPSST Main Line 503-378-2100
The mission of DPSST is to promote excellence in public safety by delivering quality training and developing and upholding professional standards for police, fire, corrections, parole and probation, polygraph and telecommunications personnel in Oregon. To achieve this mission DPSST works in partnership with public safety agencies across the state. 
For complaints regarding private security providers and private investigators call 503 378-2100
Criminal Justice Complaint Jurisdiction:

DPSST's jurisdiction for Criminal Justice complaints is limited to the standards required for public safety officer certification established by the Board on Public Safety Standards and Training. These standards can be found in Oregon Administrative Rules accessible in the link below.

OAR 259-008-0400 – Review of Complaints

OAR Chapter 259, Division 008  (This link is for the full chapter)


Criminal Justice includes Police, Corrections, Parole & Probation, Emergency Medical Dispatcher, Telecommunicator, Liquor Enforcement Inspector, and Public Safety Instructor:

 

Process:

DPSST does not have the authority to investigate crimes. If you believe a crime has taken place, please report it to the appropriate law enforcement agency in the jurisdiction where it occurred. It is important to note that in Oregon, only District Attorneys and US District Attorneys have the legal authority to file charges against individuals for crimes committed. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

DPSST does not have jurisdiction over the business operations of public safety agencies, including their investigative processes and disciplinary actions. It is the responsibility of each public safety agency to address allegations of misconduct by their employees and enforce appropriate disciplinary measures. Furthermore, DPSST does not have the authority to remove individuals from public office.

Upon receipt of a complaint against a public safety officer, DPSST will:

  1. Review the complaint
  2. Forward the complaint and any supporting documentation to the employing agency of the Public Safety Officer for them to complete the investigation.
  3. Maintain a file of the complaint and any supporting documentation as a public record. (Any release of information will be subject to public records laws)
  4. Follow the outcome of the investigation by the employing agency and if it results in the public safety officer's separation of employment or criminal conviction it will be transferred to a DPSST Compliance Coordinator for review and processing.

 

Complaint Form:

When filling out the online submission form (link below) you will see “ Your form has been submitted.“ when you hit submit. The form will go directly to a DPSST Compliance Coordinator that will review the complaint form and any supplemental information provided and handle it based on the criteria above.

Online submission is the preferred method of reporting and processing complaints, however if you need to mail your submission, please use the link below to access the PDF complaint form which has the DPSST mailing address included. Once we receive the mailed complaint you will receive a verification email and any further instructions or requests.

All information provided on this form is subject to Oregon's Public Records Law (ORS 192.410 to 192.505). DPSST may be required to release the information provided on this form, including the identity of the complainant, if requested. The individual and/or employer of the individual noted in the complaint may be provided with copies of the complaint and supplemental information

 

Online Submission - Complaint Form Online
Mail Submission - Complaint Form PDF

FAQ's

May I submit a complaint anonymously?

Yes, however, providing your name and contact information in case questions arise is crucial for the employing agency to conduct a thorough investigation into the allegations

 

Will my complaint be kept confidential?

By checking the box to remain confidential, DPSST will not disclose your personal identifying information to members of the public to the extent permitted under Oregon Public Records Law (ORS Chapter 192). Release of your identity to the individual or entity will most likely be necessary for investigative purposes.

 

What happens if DPSST determines my complaint does not fall under its jurisdiction?

You will receive notification that your complaint does not fall within DPSST's jurisdiction. If the complaint is against a public safety officer, it will be forwarded to the officer's employer as a courtesy. Non-jurisdictional complaints will be kept on file in accordance with DPSST's records retention schedule.

 

Will I be able to obtain information on complaint outcomes?

Possibly, Records maintained by DPSST are subject to Oregon Public Records Law (ORS 192.410 to 192.505). Some records may remain exempt from release at the conclusion of the investigation.


Who do I contact with questions?

Email: DPSST.Complaints@DPSST.oregon.gov or call the direct complaint line at 503-378-2799 or DPSST main line 503-378-2100. 

IMPORTANT:​ DPSST staffing is limited. You may be directed to leave a voicemail or submit your questions in writing to facilitate a response. ​

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