How to File a Complaint
If you have concerns about the actions or behaviour of a police officer, filing a complaint is the first step. Learn more below about the complaint filing process.
Before you begin
Know who and what you can make complaints about
Before submitting a complaint, it's important to understand the PRC's authority and the types of issues we address.
The PRC’s authority
We handle complaints related to Alberta police officers, including criminal allegations and misconduct.
How to file a complaint
Filing a complaint is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to get started:
Gather the information
You will be asked to provide your personal information and details of the incident, including dates and times.
Complete the online form
Click the link and fill out the complaint form with your personal details. It’s a quick process, and we’ll guide you through each step.
What happens next?
Once submitted, we’ll assess your complaint and determine the next steps. The PRC will request additional information, if needed. This may include supporting evidence (photos, videos, or documents). Next steps can include further investigation, resolution through alternative methods, or referral to the appropriate body.
Transparency in process
Communications and updates
Our team will keep you informed throughout the process with regular updates on the status of your case.
Timelines
We aim to resolve all complaints within 180 days of accepting a complaint. However, some cases may take longer depending on their complexity.
Checking the status of a complaint
You can always check the status of your complaint at any time. We provide transparency throughout the process, ensuring you are informed every step of the way.
What happens next
Once your complaint is submitted, we will review it to determine if it meets the requirements. If additional details or documents are needed, the PRC may request supporting evidence such as photos, videos, or written materials. Depending on the outcome of the review, next steps may involve further investigation, resolution through alternative methods, or referral to the appropriate authority.
FAQs
These are some of the most common inquiries we receive. For additional information, check out our full FAQ below. If you need further assistance, our team is always ready to help.
How do I file a complaint against a police officer?
You can file a complaint by clicking the “Make a complaint” button in the upper right-hand corner of the PRC’s website. You can also file a complaint by phone: call 780-644-0306 and follow the prompts.
The Police Act has been amended to make the complaint process more accessible, by giving the PRC’s chief executive officer the ability to accept complaints in methods other than in writing.
If you have questions about filing a complaint using another method, please email PRCaccommodations@gov.ab.ca or call 780-644-0306 and follow the prompts for accessibility accommodations
For a detailed breakdown of the PRC’s mandate and jurisdiction, visit What the PRC Can & Can’t Do.
The length of an investigation can depend on several factors, including: the seriousness of the allegations and the complexity of the investigation; if the case is suitable for early or alternative dispute resolution and whether the parties agree to it.
The PRC is required to conclude investigations within 180 days of categorizing a complaint and assigning it to the appropriate investigative team. If the PRC doesn’t conclude an investigation within 180 days, the chief executive officer is required publicly report on it and provide reasons why that timeline wasn’t met.
Appeals and reviews of PRC decisions in non-criiminal misconduct cases (Level 3 complaints) are allowable in some instances set out in the Police Act. When your complaint is concluded, you will receive a written decision which will tell you whether you can appeal to the Law Enforcement Review Board (LERB), and how long you have to do so. Appeals can be made on the following grounds:
- You disagree with the CEO’s decision that there was no contravention of the Police Conduct and Oversight Regulation in your case.
- You disagree with the outcome of a disciplinary hearing.
- You disagree with your complaint being dismissed as frivolous/vexatious/bad faith.
