The Los Alamitos Police Department values and practices the principles embodied in the philosophy of Community Oriented Policing. Basic life principles of respect, trust, courage, honor and loyalty provide the foundation for the service philosophy in Los Alamitos. The Police Department recognizes that law enforcement goals must be based on shared values. Accordingly, all of the goals and objectives of the Department are based on the following values:

• Full Service to the Community
• Preservation of the Quality of Life
• Compassion
• Integrity
• Pride in Self, Fellow Employees, Department and Community

The members of the Los Alamitos Police Department work to create police-community partnerships that proactively address causes of crime as well as other community issues. These partnerships become the mechanism to effectively solve problems and maintain order.

EMPLOYEE COMMENDATIONS

If you would like to commend one of the Los Alamitos Police Department employees, please e-mail the Department at cfrye@ci.los-alamitos.ca.us.

Please include your name, e-mail address, the employee’s name, and a brief summary of the action or incident you would like to commend. If you would prefer to speak to someone in person, you may call the Police Department at (562) 431-2255.

COMPLAINT PROCESS

You have the right to make a complaint against a police officer for any improper police conduct. California law requires this agency to have a procedure to investigate Members of the Public Complaints. You have a right to a written description of this procedure. This agency may find after investigation that there is not enough evidence to warrant action on your complaint; even if that is the case, you have the right to make the complaint and have it investigated if you believe an officer behaved improperly. Members of the Public Complaints and any reports or findings relating to complaints must be retained by this agency for at least five years. It is against the law to make a complaint that you know to be false.

Summary of the Complaint Process:

It is desirable that you come to the Police Department where your complaint can be received during a personal interview. However, complaints may also be made by telephone or by mail. All information received will be treated confidentially by the Police Department.

A parent or guardian’s signature is required on any complaint filed by a person under 18 years of age. To simplify the complaint process, a form is available at the front counter of the Police Department, or by mail. This form requests specific information regarding your complaint. After you complete the complaint form, an employee will be assigned to investigate your complaint. This investigator will contact witnesses, examine relevant physical evidence, and gather all information pertinent to each allegation made in the complaint. After completing the investigation, a complaint disposition shall be made based on each alleged act of misconduct. The Chief of Police will determine the final disposition of the case and shall administer appropriate corrective and/or disciplinary action if warranted.

You will be notified of the results of the investigation no later than 45 days after the complaint is filed. For more information or if you wish to file a complaint of police misconduct, please contact the Los Alamitos Police Department at:

(562) 431-2255.