The Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) is the New York City agency that investigates complaints from the public about police misconduct. We are an independent agency and not a part of the police department. The CCRB investigates complaints about unnecessary or excessive force; abuse of authority; discourtesy; and offensive language. We offer these tips if you are stopped by the NYPD, which may help to de-escalate the encounter:
* Do not run.
* Stay calm and keep your hands visible and still.
* Provide ID if asked.
* Do not argue with the officer.
If you think a police officer’s behavior was inappropriate, the safest and most effective way for you to respond is by filing a complaint with the CCRB. Once you contact us, we start an investigation.
The success of our investigation will hinge in part on the information that you provide. Write down the officer’s name and shield number if you can see it. You also have the right to ask an officer for his or her name and badge number and he/she is required to give it to you, though some may not. Write down the officer’s physical appearance, including height, weight, hair and eye color, as well as distinguishing marks such as birthmarks, tattoos, or scars. Also note the date and time of the incident, and if there is a patrol car, write down the car number. If there are witnesses, get their names and contact information. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately and take pictures of your injuries.
To file a complaint with the CCRB:
- File online through our website at http://www.nyc.gov/ccrb and click on File a Complaint on the left hand side of the page.
- Come to our office at 100 Church Street, 10th floor, New York, NY, 10007, from Monday–Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
- Send a letter to the address above.
- Call 311 anytime and they will direct your call to us.
If the CCRB determines that an officer has acted improperly, then the case is substantiated and sent to the police commissioner with a disciplinary recommendation. When the board recommends the most serious form of discipline – administrative charges – CCRB attorneys will prosecute the police officer at an administrative trial.
If you would like a speaker from the CCRB to come to your community center or any other group, please call 212-912-2061.
Source: NYCHA
