File a Complaint
What is a Complaint?
The Office of Police Accountability (OPA) processes allegations of misconduct involving Seattle Police Department (SPD) employees. Violations can range from unprofessional behavior to biased policing to excessive force. For OPA consideration, a complaint must allege an SPD employee violated an SPD policy (see SPD’s manual).
Who Can File a Complaint?
Anyone can file a complaint. Although you can file a complaint anonymously, it is helpful if you provide a phone number or email address so an investigator can follow up to obtain additional information that may be crucial to the investigation. We also accept complaints from outside agencies or third parties reporting on behalf of others.
Is Filing a Complaint Safe?
We intend for our process to be safe. You will not be asked about your immigration status. You will not need to speak with the employee you are filing a complaint against.
How do I File a Complaint?
SUBMIT A WEB FORM:
Note: a new window will open with your selected form.
EMAIL US:
CALL US:
If your call is directed to the voicemail system, please leave a message and an investigator will get back to you shortly. Please make sure to leave your contact information - preferably your e-mail address - in the message.
VISIT US:
720 3rd Avenue, 18th Floor
Seattle, WA 98104
The OPA office is open Monday through Thursday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM. If you come to the office to file a complaint, you can complete a form or ask to speak to an available investigator. The office is located separately from Seattle Police Department Headquarters and precincts. Please email opa@seattle.gov if you have any questions.
SEND US A LETTER:
Office of Police Accountability
P.O. Box 34986
Seattle, WA 98124-4986
If submitting a complaint by mail, please:
Download the complaint form