How to file a complaint about the Joliet Police Department
You can file a complaint about any Joliet Police Department employee in person, by phone or online. This guide explains how to file, what happens next and what the Illinois Attorney General’s office reported about the process.
- 815-724-3100Watch commander
- 150 W. Washington St.Main station
- Internal AffairsWho reviews it
- 9-1-1Emergency
Who you can file a complaint about
The Joliet Police Department says you can file a complaint about any employee, including patrol officers, supervisors, dispatchers and clerical staff.
Before you file
Write down the date, time and place of the incident, officer names or badge numbers, squad numbers, witnesses and what was said. Keep copies of photos, medical records and anything you submit.
Ways to file
- In person: Go to the front desk of the main station at 150 W. Washington St. and ask for the watch commander on duty. The department calls this the best option.
- By phone: Call the watch commander at 815-724-3100.
- Online: Use the File a Complaint page on the City website.
The main station is open Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–9 p.m., and weekends, 8 a.m.–3 p.m. In an emergency, always call 9-1-1.
What happens after you file
You will be interviewed and asked to sign a Complaint Receipt form. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian must come with you and sign.
The form goes to the Internal Affairs Unit, with a copy to the officer’s division commander. You may be interviewed again during the investigation.
What the Illinois Attorney General found
In its review of the department, the Illinois Attorney General’s office reported that Internal Affairs is staffed by a sergeant and a lieutenant. The unit sorts complaints into three categories: formal complaints, informal complaints and informal inquiries.
The Attorney General’s office reported that little or no fact-finding is typically done for informal complaints and informal inquiries. Ask how your complaint is classified.
Board of Fire and Police Commissioners
The City’s Board of Fire and Police Commissioners operates under rules most recently adopted in September 2025 and approved by the City Council in December 2025. The rules cover hiring, promotion and disciplinary hearings.
Legal help
This guide is general information, not legal advice. If you were injured or charged with a crime, consider speaking with a lawyer.
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