Internal Affairs and Professional Standards
Internal Affairs investigations can result in four possible outcomes. Sustained means evidence shows an officer violated regulations. Unfounded indicates the alleged misconduct didn't occur. Exonerated means the conduct occurred but didn't violate any rules. Not sustained means insufficient evidence exists to prove or disprove the allegation.
Discipline options range from minor to severe, including oral reprimands, written reprimands, fines, suspension without pay, loss of promotional opportunities, demotion, and termination. The severity typically matches the seriousness of the violation.
Performance appraisals require organizational commitment, informal feedback, good record-keeping, employee participation, validated forms, and rater training. They reinforce values, provide a basis for personnel decisions, establish expectations, stimulate performance, identify training needs, and recognize good performance.
🔍 Internal affairs processes aren't just about catching misconduct—they protect the integrity of policing and maintain public trust. Officers who understand these systems can better uphold professional standards throughout their careers.