Course Objectives:
Introduction:
Outline of the program…current state of misconduct potential in law enforcement around the country…essential elements of a reasonable Internal Affairs or Professional Standards system common complaints about police misconduct systems. Foundation For The System: Importance of firm definitions of what constitutes a complaint and what is misconduct peculiarities of conduct unbecoming allegations. Recognize the major steps in conducting a reasonable IA/OPS investigation and the importance of a systemic approach to each investigation. Understand the necessity and timing for compelled statements and learn when it’s imperative to have statements transcribed. Delineate the needs and investigative techniques for sexual and domestic misconduct, social media and critical incident investigations. Recognize the agency cultural effects and increasing costs of employee retaliation claims. Acknowledge the stress and available options for employees during IA/OPS investigations. Learn the positive approaches to protecting your IA/OPS Investigations and imposed discipline..
Course Topics:
Introduction to emerging issues in IA/OPS operations. Fundamentals of a Reasonable IA/OPS Investigation: Intake and transparency of the complaint process, interviews, evidence collection including electronic evidence, and consistency in adjudication. Case study of 4 high liability police employee off-duty incidents, when not doing it right creates agency/supervisory liability. Special considerations during the investigation of critical incidents. Police Employee Sexual Misconduct: The problem, necessity for written policy, special investigative practices and supervisory control techniques. Police Employee Involved Domestic Misconduct: Criminal vs. Administrative, special investigative techniques, administrative no-contact orders, and necessity for written policy. Social media issues and the foundation for conduct unbecoming for police employees. Employee retaliation and emerging high cost issues in police agencies. Dealing with Employee Issues Affecting Agency Operations: Brady/Giglio, early warning systems, fitness for duty evaluations, outside resources, code of silence, safety committee concept.