How to File a Police Complaint in Memphis

Public Safety Tennessee 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 08, 2026 Flag of Tennessee

In Memphis, Tennessee, anyone who believes an officer engaged in misconduct can file a complaint with the Memphis Police Department. This guide explains who handles complaints, how to start the process, typical outcomes, appeal routes, and official contacts so you can report conduct clearly and securely.

Overview

Complaints about police conduct in Memphis are handled through the Memphis Police DepartmentProfessional Standards/Internal Affairs functions. The city publishes information on the departmentProfessional Standards page and provides official contact routes for submitting civilian complaints.[1]

File complaints promptly and keep a record of dates, witnesses, and any evidence.

Penalties & Enforcement

Discipline for substantiated officer misconduct is imposed through the Memphis Police Department disciplinary process and may include administrative actions rather than specified monetary fines.

  • Monetary fines: not specified on the cited page.[1]
  • Escalation (first/repeat/continuing offences): not specified on the cited page; disciplinary outcomes may vary by severity.[1]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: administrative reprimand, suspension, reassignment, mandatory training, or termination are typical administrative outcomes though specific schedules are not listed on the cited page.[1]
  • Enforcer/point of contact: Memphis Police Department Professional Standards/Internal Affairs. Use the department contact listed on the official page for complaint intake.[1]
  • Appeal and review: specific appeal time limits and formal review procedures are not specified on the cited page; inquire with Professional Standards for appeal deadlines and steps.[1]

Applications & Forms

The city provides instructions and contact information for civilian complaints on the MPD Professional Standards page. The cited official page does not list a numbered form or fixed fee for filing a complaint; see the official contact information for submission methods and any required forms.[1]

How to Report: What to Include

  • Date, time, and location of the incident.
  • Names and badge numbers of officers, if known.
  • Contact information for complainant and witness names.
  • Any photos, video, or documents that support the claim.
Keep a signed, dated copy of the complaint and any proof of submission.

Action Steps

  • Collect and preserve evidence and witness contact details.
  • Contact Memphis Police Department Professional Standards to report the complaint and ask for the next steps and reference number.[1]
  • If dissatisfied with the departmentoutcome, ask about appeal or review options and any external oversight bodies; the cited page advises contacting Professional Standards for further instruction.[1]

FAQ

Who accepts civilian complaints about Memphis police?
The Memphis Police Department Professional Standards/Internal Affairs unit accepts civilian complaints and provides intake information on the official MPD Professional Standards page.[1]
Can I file anonymously?
The cited official page does not specify whether anonymous complaints are accepted; contact Professional Standards for policy and options.[1]
Are there fees to file a complaint?
No fee is listed on the cited page; the official MPD Professional Standards information does not specify any filing fee.[1]

How-To

  1. Gather details: date, time, location, officer identity, witness names, and evidence.
  2. Contact Memphis Police Department Professional Standards by the contact method listed on the official page and request to file a civilian complaint.[1]
  3. Submit evidence and keep records of your submission, including any reference or case number provided.
  4. Request updates and the expected timeline; if you are unsatisfied, ask about internal appeal steps or external review options.

Key Takeaways

  • File promptly and document evidence and witnesses.
  • Use the Memphis Police Department Professional Standards contact for formal intake.[1]
  • Disciplinary details and appeal deadlines are not listed on the public page; ask Professional Standards for specifics.[1]

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Memphis Professional Standards - Police Department

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