The Harris County Sheriff's Office maintains a separate unit for receiving and investigating complaints from citizens against deputies and civilian members of the HCSO.
The Internal Affairs Division (IAD) can be reached at 713-274-5003. When you contact the office, an IAD investigator will explain the proper procedures in order to file a complaint. The IAD office is located at 5749 S. Loop Houston, TX. 77033. The hours of operation are 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Persons with disabilities and unable to travel, can contact the office for assistance.
When you come into the IAD office you will need to bring your official photo ID with you in order to provide a sworn statement concerning your complaint.
IAD investigator will take sworn statements from the complainant and any witnesses to the incident.
These statements are notarized and treated in the same manner as testimony in a court of law; therefore, aggravated perjury statutes apply.
After a complainant has provided the IAD with a sworn statement, an internal affairs investigation will be opened.
A letter will be sent to the complainant advising the name and contact of the investigator assigned to his/her case.
State law mandates that the accused is provided a copy of the complaint.
When appropriate, medical records are examined, physical evidence is gathered, and photographs may be taken.
The complainant may be asked to take a polygraph examination. The polygraph examination is strictly voluntary.
However, state law mandates that the complainant must take and pass a polygraph examination before an accused peace officer can be ordered to take a polygraph examination.
Once the investigation is complete, the complaint/case is presented to the Sheriff's Administrative Disciplinary Committee for disposition.
The Sheriff's Administrative Disciplinary Committee will determine the disposition of the allegation and will recommend discipline if applicable.
The employee's Bureau Major will then administer the appropriate discipline if necessary.
Upon final disposition of the complaint, a written response detailing the outcome of the investigation will be sent to the citizen and employee involved.