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1. What is the function of the Office of Professional Standards (Internal Affairs)?

The Office of Professional Standards is responsible for receiving, processing, and supervising internal affairs investigations that involve allegations of criminal conduct and acts of misconduct made against members of our agency. The Office of Professional Standards ensures that allegations made against members of the Jackson Police Department are thoroughly and objectively investigated to their logical conclusion. 

The Office of Professional Standards maintains a comprehensive index of all complaints received which is submitted to the Ocean County Prosecutors Office on a quarterly and annual basis.

2. What does the Office of Professional Standards do?

The Office of Professional Standards has the responsibility to investigate all allegations of misconduct by members of the department, and to review and adjudicate all minor complaints which are handled by supervisors.

3. How do I file a complaint against an Officer or Employee of the Police Department?

Complaints will be accepted in person, by telephone, written correspondence or by email. It is preferred that the complaint be made in person by the individual who is directly involved in the allegation so we can ascertain as much information as possible to effectively investigate the complaint.

4. How are complaints investigated?

Your complaint will be sent to a superior officer or a specially trained internal affairs investigator who will conduct a thorough and objective investigation. If the complaint alleges minor violations of departmental policies or procedures or the complaint alleges acts of discourtesy, the complaint may be forwarded through the chain of command to the member’s immediate supervisor to investigate.

• You may be asked to help in the investigation by giving a detailed statement about what occurred or by providing other important information.
• If the investigation shows that a crime might have happened, the County Prosecutor will be immediately notified. You may be asked to be interviewed, or to testify in court.
• If the investigation results in an officer being charged with a violation of department rules or regulations, you may be asked to testify in a departmental hearing.
• If the investigation shows that the complaint is unfounded or that the officer acted properly, the investigation will be closed.

5. What happens when the investigation is concluded?

Once the investigation is concluded, you will be advised of the outcome, or disposition, in writing. Complaints from the public, whether substantiated or not, increase the awareness of the leadership of this agency to actual or potential problems, as well as the perceptions of the community. This feedback will ultimately assist in determining whether the mission statement and goals of this agency are being attained.

6. Who do I contact in the Jackson Police Department Office of Professional Standards?

All inquiries may be directed to Lieutenant George Vidalis via email or by calling 732-833-3003.