Professional Standards Unit
The Columbus Division of Fire strives to provide the best in professional service during each encounter with members of our community based upon the value of having respect for others. If you feel that we have not lived up to our stated mission, the citizen complaint system provides a fair, factual, and objective review of your concerns.
THE PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS UNIT PRIMARY OBJECTIVES;
• Promoting responsible Stewardship by protecting the concerns of the Public.
• Facilitating Quality Assurance to address operational, procedural or administrative deficiencies.
• Ensuring Fairness and Accountability to all involved.
HOW TO FILE A COMPLAINT
All complaints must be filed within 60 days of the alleged incident, unless there are special circumstances. Complaints filed immediately improve the process of gathering factual information.
To file a complaint, contact the Columbus Division of Fire, Professional Standards Unit, by one of the following methods:
- Telephone: Call (614) 645-4046.
The conversation is recorded to ensure an accurate account of your complaint. - Mail or Email: You can send a written complaint by mail to Columbus Division of Fire, Professional Standards Unit, 750 East Long Street, Columbus, Ohio 43202. You may also use our Division Email address, [email protected] .
- It is important to include your name, address, and telephone number so we may contact you about your complaint.
- In Person: You can file your complaint in person at 750 E Long Street, 3rd floor between the hours of 7:00 AM and 3 PM, Monday – Friday (excluding government holidays).
INVESTIGATION OF A COMPLAINT
The investigator will conduct a detailed investigation of the incident and gather statements from you and witnesses. Your assistance is expected and additional information may be needed. If the accusation is criminal in nature, the complaint will be referred to the police agency and/or local authority having jurisdiction. When the investigation is complete, the investigator will give a written report to the Administration Bureau Chief’s Office. The Administration Chief will make his/her recommendations which will be reviewed by the Fire Chief and he/she will decide the appropriate outcome.
OUTCOME OF YOUR COMPLAINT
You will receive a letter via U.S. mail stating the outcome of your formal complaint. Please be aware that a detailed investigation and review of the facts can take time. You may not be notified about the final outcome for several weeks. If the complaint requires an extensive investigation, it may take even longer. If you have any question concerning your complaint please call (614) 645-4046, and ask to speak to the investigator assigned to your case.
OUTCOME OF FINDINGS
Your investigation will result in one of the following findings:
- SUSTAINED- The allegation(s) is supported by evidence. Depending on the severity of the action, a sustained finding may result in disciplinary action.
- NOT SUSTAINED- There is not enough evidence to either prove or disprove the allegation(s).
- EXONERATED- The accusation is true, but the action taken by the CFD member was legal and appropriate for the situation.
- UNFOUNDED- There is no evidence to support the allegation(s) or there is not enough information to complete an investigation.
- WITHDRAWN- The complaint is canceled and/or retracted by complainant prior to completion of the investigation.
- OTHER- The investigation reveals evidence of other sustained infraction(s) and/or procedural deficiency, or any disposition not applicable to a previously listed definition.