The Division of Law Enforcement and Safety is committed to receiving and accepting complaints about the action and performance of all our employees.  We work very hard to provide the highest level of quality law enforcement service to all citizens.  Policing is a very difficult and complex job in today's society and we realize that mistakes can be made and the actions of our employees may fall short of your expectations.

The members of the Division are aware of the important responsibilities and duties they have as public servants.  We operate under the constitutional guarantees afforded to everyone and under the laws that govern us.  Therefore, the courteous receipt of complaints, thorough and impartial investigation, and just disposition are important in maintaining the confidence of the citizenry.

UNDERSTANDING THE PROCESS

A complaint may be made with the Division in the following ways:

• Visit the University Police Department at 1501 Senate Street, Columbia, SC and request to speak with the Duty Supervisor.

• Call the University Police Department at (803) 777-4215 and request to speak with the Duty Supervisor.

• Write a letter to the Director of Law Enforcement and Safety and mail to:

          1501 Senate Street, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208.

AFTER A COMPLAINT IS MADE

A record of the complaint will be forwarded to the Director for evaluation and assignment.  The matter may be handled by the involved employee's supervisor or, for more serious complaints, an investigator may be assigned to initiate an internal affairs investigation.

The Division requires that investigations of complaints be completed in an expeditious fashion; however, because of unforeseen circumstances, some may take longer than others. 

DISPOSITION

The results of each investigation of a citizen's complaint will be forwarded to the Director for his personal review.  If the evidence supports a rules violation only, the matter will be handled internally.  If the matter is more serious or criminal, it may be referred to the appropriate jurisdiction.  The Director is the final authority for discipline.

SPECIAL NOTE

Anyone who makes a complaint against a member of the Division shall be treated with courtesy and respect.  Not withstanding the fact that a complaint was made,

NO EMPLOYEE SHALL FAIL TO PROVIDE PROFESSIONAL SERVICE TO THAT INDIVIDUAL AT ALL TIMES.