The Palisades Interstate Parkway Police Department prides itself on exceeding the professional standards expected by the public and other agencies. However, providing these services in a manner acceptable to everyone may not always be possible. The Palisades Interstate Parkway Police recognizes that mistakes may be made and the actions of our officers may fall short of expectations.

We have established rules and regulations and standing operating procedures governing the professional and personal conduct of employees and acceptable work performance standards. These guidelines are designed to protect the well-being and the rights of all citizens and employees. Our Internal Affairs Unit will thoroughly investigate all reports of misconduct by members of this agency regardless of the source. Anyone who files a complaint against an officer will be treated with courtesy and respect.

You are encouraged to contact us at 201-768-6001 if you have a complaint about the actions of a member of this agency if you believe their conduct was inappropriate or that they have violated the law. Our Internal Affairs staff can answer questions about actions of officers, initiate a complaint against an officer, and conduct investigations of police conduct. In some cases, citizens no longer feel a need to submit a formal complaint after misconceptions about police procedures are clarified. For this reason, we encourage you to contact us to discuss your incident.

Please keep in mind that although we encourage citizens to report police misconduct, complaints must be made in good faith. False or highly exaggerated complaints serve no good purpose for either the citizens or the officer and only tend to thwart our complaint-taking process. Anyone who willfully makes any false accusation for the purpose of discrediting a police officer may be criminally charged under various statutes.

If the investigation indicates the officer has committed a violation, corrective action commensurate with the severity of the violation will be taken. Mitigating circumstances may be considered by the Chief of Police in determining appropriate penalties. Discipline under the rules and regulations will not be based on any employee’s race, color, political affiliation, sex, disability, or age. Action taken against the officer may involve: 

• Counseling (non-discipline)
• Remedial training (non-discipline)
• Written reprimand
• Suspension
• Reduction in rank
• Termination

After an investigation is completed, less severe discipline (written reprimand and five or less days suspension) is administered directly by the Chief of Police. More serious discipline (suspension for more than five days, reduction in rank, or termination) will be imposed if the officer is found guilty at a disciplinary hearing. In the event the member is subject to a disciplinary hearing, the complainant and witnesses may be called to testify. They will be notified in writing by this agency when the complaint has been resolved. However, the exact discipline imposed is a confidential personnel matter and will not be revealed to the complainant. Officers may also appeal the final decision. The State of New Jersey has established procedures for members to follow in filing their appeals, just as it has established procedures to fairly and honestly investigate citizens’ complaints.

Although a complaint can be taken at any time and in any form, It is recommended that you submit your complaint in person at our station. A member of the Internal Affairs Unit is more likely to be working weekdays and is better trained to assist you in your needs. If you prefer, you may also schedule your appointment in advance by calling 201-768-6001.

Should you not be able to appear in person, you may also call the number above and discuss your complaint over the phone. You may be asked to provide additional documentation or information to support your allegations and ultimately aid in the thoroughness of the investigation. Your cooperation in this is appreciated. 

Basic information about the process can be found by downloading the following PDF:
Citizen Complaint Information Sheet.

We take your complaint seriously. However, if a complaint is found to be fabricated and maliciously pursued, the complainant may be subject to criminal prosecution and/or civil proceedings.