File a Use-of-Force Complaint in Manhattan

Public Safety New York 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 05, 2026 Flag of New York

Manhattan residents who believe they experienced or witnessed police use of force can file a formal complaint with the city process that handles police misconduct. This guide explains where to file, what to expect from investigations, common penalties, and how to appeal or seek civil remedies in Manhattan, New York.

Who handles use-of-force complaints

The Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) is the independent city agency that accepts and investigates complaints about police conduct in New York City. The NYPD also investigates use-of-force incidents through its internal units; some cases are investigated jointly or referred between agencies. Both agencies publish guidance on filing complaints and cooperating with investigations.

You can file with the CCRB even if you already reported the incident to the NYPD.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement options and sanctions for substantiated use-of-force complaints involve disciplinary processes within the NYPD and, where applicable, criminal prosecution or civil litigation. The CCRB can investigate and recommend disciplinary action; final discipline decisions are typically made by the NYPD Commissioner or through negotiated discipline. Specific monetary fines for officers are not set out on the CCRB complaint page and are not specified on the cited page; the CCRB and NYPD documentation focus on disciplinary outcomes and policy changes rather than fixed fines. Current information is cited below and is current as of February 2026.

  • Monetary fines for officers: not specified on the cited page.
  • Disciplinary escalation: outcomes range from training and reprimand to suspension or termination depending on severity and findings.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: orders, discipline records, suspensions, reassignment, or termination; criminal referral when applicable.
  • Enforcers and investigators: CCRB investigators, NYPD Internal Affairs / Force Investigation units, and prosecuting authorities where criminal conduct is alleged.
  • Appeals and review: disciplinary decisions may be subject to departmental appeal procedures or collective bargaining review; time limits for appeals are set by NYPD/collective-bargaining rules or by statute for prosecutions and civil claims and are not specified on the cited CCRB page.
If you fear retaliation or ongoing risk, state this clearly when you file so investigators can take protective steps.

Applications & Forms

The CCRB publishes an online complaint form and accepts complaints by phone, mail, or in person. There is no fee to file a complaint. Where the CCRB or NYPD require additional forms during an investigation, those are provided directly to complainants or available on the agency websites.

How to prepare a complaint

  • Collect details: date, time, location, officer badge numbers or descriptions, witness names, and any photographs or medical records.
  • Act promptly: file as soon as reasonably possible; some processes and evidence are time-sensitive.
  • Keep records: save a copy of your complaint, confirmation numbers, and any correspondence with investigators.
Documenting injuries and witnesses strengthens an investigation.

FAQ

Who can file a use-of-force complaint?
Any person who experienced or witnessed alleged police misconduct or use of force can file a complaint with the CCRB or report to the NYPD; family members or legal representatives may file on behalf of someone else.
Do I need a lawyer to file?
No, you may file directly with the CCRB without a lawyer, though legal counsel may be advisable for parallel civil or criminal matters.
Will my complaint trigger an investigation?
The CCRB screens complaints and investigates those within its jurisdiction; credible allegations of excessive force are generally investigated and may be referred to the NYPD or prosecutors as appropriate.

How-To

  1. Go to the CCRB online complaint page and complete the complaint form with as much detail as possible. Civilian Complaint Review Board online complaint form[1]
  2. If you cannot file online, call 311 (or the CCRB phone number) to report the incident or request a mailed form.
  3. Provide any evidence you have: photos, medical records, witness names, and contact information.
  4. Cooperate with investigators: expect interviews and a review of available body-worn camera or other records; ask for updates and a case number.
  5. If dissatisfied with outcomes, consult an attorney about departmental appeals, civil claims under federal or state law, or criminal referrals.

Key Takeaways

  • You can file with the CCRB regardless of prior NYPD reports.
  • Collect detailed evidence and witness information before filing.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] Civilian Complaint Review Board complaint page

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