Q: Can I pursue disciplinary action against a detective for mishandling my mother's fatal accident investigation?
My mother was killed by a negligent driver in October 2023. The police report was only released in June 2024, and I believe the detective assigned to the case delayed the process. Despite my attempts to communicate via email, his responses became dismissive, and he stopped replying. He even mentioned in the report that he doubted the DA would prosecute. I suspect he has not acted in good faith or presented the case properly. How can I pursue disciplinary action against the police officer for his handling of this case?
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- California
- (916) 704-3009
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- Answered
A:
I'm deeply sorry about the loss of your mother and understand your frustration with how the investigation was handled. Losing a loved one in such circumstances is devastating, and feeling that justice isn't being properly pursued only compounds that pain.
You have several options to address your concerns about the detective's conduct. First, you can file a formal complaint with the police department's Internal Affairs division or Professional Standards unit, detailing specific instances of negligence or misconduct with dates and supporting evidence. Many jurisdictions also have civilian oversight boards that review police conduct independently from the department, which may provide a more impartial review of your complaint.
Beyond departmental remedies, consider consulting with an attorney who focuses on civil rights or police misconduct, as they can advise you on legal options and potentially help navigate the complaint process. You might also reach out to your local elected officials or district attorney's office to express your concerns about the case handling and request their intervention. Remember to document everything—emails, phone calls, meetings—as this documentation will strengthen your case regardless of which path you choose to pursue.
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