Complaint Process

The Sheriff's Office feels that any person making a complaint about the agency or its operations is entitled to a response. Communication is vital to good law enforcement services and to develop community cooperation. The Sheriff's Office has a procedure which can be employed by the community to make complaints concerning Department policies, programs and personnel.

Complaint Reporting Procedure

Serious complaints, such as criminal misconduct or brutality, are investigated by Internal Affairs. Less serious complaints, such as discourtesy and unprofessional conduct, will normally be investigated by the employee’s supervisor. Complaints may be made in person, via regular or electronic email, or by calling the Internal Affairs Division between the hours of 8:30 am and 5 pm, Monday through Friday (excluding holidays) at  706-821-1000. Complaints can also be submitted electronically here: RCSO Complaint Form, or the form can be printed and submitted by the following methods:

Mail: Internal Affairs Division
400 Walton Way
Augusta, Ga 30911

Fax: 706-821-1462

Complaint Investigation and Disposition Process

All complaints are thoroughly investigated. A detailed report is prepared including statements from the complainant, employee, and all witnesses. The investigative report presents an unbiased account of the circumstances as they actually occurred. Each report is reviewed by the Internal Affairs Commander for completeness, clarity, and objectivity. The completed report is forwarded to the Sheriff for a final disposition. If the facts show there was employee misconduct, the Sheriff directs the employee’s chain of command to recommend corrective action (discipline/remedial training, etc.).