INTERNAL AFFAIRS

The internal affairs function is not an enforcement function, but rather a policing function that works to report only. The concept of internal affairs is very broad and unique to each  department. However, the sole purpose to having an internal affairs unit is to investigate and find the truth to what occurred when someone is accused of misconduct. An investigation can also give insight on a policy itself that may have issues. The circumstances of the complaint determine who will be investigating the complaint. The investigation of alleged misconduct can be conducted by the internal affairs unit, an executive officer, or an outside agency.  Smaller agencies that do not have sufficient resources may have the executive officer, the accused's supervisor, or another police department conduct an investigation. The state police may also be asked to investigate criminal behavior, but they do not deal in minor misconduct or rule violation cases.  IADs primary mission is to ensure that everyone performs their duties in accordance with professional standards.