American Canyon Police Department is a division of the Napa County Sheriff's Office. The Napa County Sheriff’s Office is committed to providing high quality service to the community. In order to be responsive to community needs, it is necessary to have citizen input. The Napa County Sheriff’s Office encourages recommendations from the public on ways to improve our services. We welcome commendations for personnel who perform their duties exceptionally well and encourage inquiries and complaints about questionable performance, actions, policies or procedures.
Citizen’s Inquiry and Complaint Process
What is a Citizen’s Inquiry?
A Citizen’s Inquiry is any contact with a citizen in reference to an issue of concern that does not require a formal investigation. The Citizen’s Inquiry process seeks to resolve the issue at an informal level, to the satisfaction of the citizen, by means of discussion, explanation or clarification. Citizen’s Inquiries are generally handled by an on-duty supervisor. A Citizen’s Inquiry that is not resolved can become a Citizen’s Complaint.
What is a Citizen’s Complaint?
A Citizen’s Complaint is a formal documentation involving:
1. a complaint against Personnel;
which was not resolved at the Citizen’s Inquiry level or because the nature of the allegation may require an administrative and/or criminal investigation. The investigation will usually include a review of all applicable reports, policies and procedures, examination of any evidence or medical records and interviews with involved parties and witnesses.
At the end of the investigation, you will receive written notification of the Sheriff’s Office findings. The release shall not include what discipline, if any was imposed (832.7(f) PC).
Notification of Findings
- Sustained - The allegation made in the complaint was proven.
- Not Sustained - The investigation failed to prove or disprove the allegation.
- Unfounded - The investigation shows that the alleged act did not occur.
- Exonerated - The investigation shows that the alleged act did occur, but was justified, lawful and proper under the circumstances.
Citizen's Process for Commending Exceptional Performance
Although our employees don’t expect to be thanked for everything they do, recognition of exceptional service is always constructive. Recognition of exceptional performance is a valuable component of the citizen feedback process. Commendations, either verbal or written, are one of the best ways you can let someone know that you appreciate their good work.