Reporting directly to the Chief of Police, the Professional Standards Commander has the responsibility for ensuring that the professional standards and integrity of the Arlington Police Department and its members are maintained. This is achieved by rewarding exceptional performance and, when necessary, thoroughly investigating alleged misconduct. APD utilizes an internal system where objectivity, fairness, and justice are assured by intensive and impartial investigation and review.

The best way to commend the actions of an Arlington Police Officer is to write a brief letter describing the incident and the actions you think were exceptional. Information such as date, time, and the location will help identify the employee if you do not know his or her name. For your convenience we also provide a downloadable form, please see below. 

Commendation Form - English 
Commendation Form in Spanish
Commendation Form in Portuguese. 
Commendation Form in Chinese. 
Commendation Form in Japanese.

Commendations received by the Chief are forwarded to the employee with a copy placed in his or her personnel file. Although our employees do not expect to be thanked for everything they do, recognition of exceptional service is always appreciated. This kind of feedback helps us know if we are doing a good job.

An inquiry or complaint can be made in person (112 Mystic Street), by mail, or over the phone (781 316-3907). For your convenience we also provide a downloadable form, please see below. 

Complaint Form in English 
Complaint Form in Spanish
Complaint Form in Portuguese 
Complaint Form in Chinese
Complaint Form in Japanese

Any police department employee whose duties involve public contact may accept an initial inquiry or complaint against personnel, procedures, or policies. If the inquiry or complaint is about personnel, you should contact the employee’s shift or unit commander. If the employee’s commander is not available, you may contact the on-duty supervisor. The supervisor will ensure that your inquiry or complaint is directed to the proper authority.

If your inquiry or complaint appears to be based on a misunderstanding or lack of knowledge of the law, desired conduct, procedures or practices, the police department employee may offer an explanation. If you are not satisfied with their explanation, you may insist on speaking with the employee’s supervisor.

When the Office of Professional Standards becomes aware of complaints or allegations against a department employee, it will be thoroughly investigated. A simple inquiry might take only a day to complete, while a complex complaint may take 90 or more days to investigate and review.

The Chief of Police reviews every inquiry and complaint. If the Chief determines that an employee violated the department policies or procedures, appropriate corrective action is taken. This review will include considering ways to improve policies, procedures, and training.

Once the investigation is concluded, you will be notified of the findings.