Complaints can be filed with the staff of the Police Review & Advisory Board online. To file in person, by email to prab@cambridgema.gov, by mail, or by telephone (617.349.6155), you can download and complete a complaint form (PDF) describing any relevant details of your specific complaint.

Complaints should be filed within 60 days of an incident. Staff is happy to assist with this process. Translated complaint forms are available.

• Excessive use of force
• Use of discourteous or demeaning language 
• Improper stop, arrest, search and seizure
• Inadequate investigation or improper police reports
• Discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, ancestry, age, sexual orientation, sex, religion, disability, or national origin or any other criteria defined in federal and state guidelines.
• Harassment 
• Improper police procedures 
• Improper traffic citation or towing of a car by the police

Once a complaint is filed, Board staff will work with the Professional Standards Unit of the Cambridge Police Department to investigate all complaints. An investigation includes interviews with both the complainant and involved police officer(s), as well as any other relevant individuals, and reviewing police reports, witness statements, and other pertinent information. The staff submits its investigative report to the Board, which reviews the report, and may accept the report or order additional investigation into the complaint. After the investigation process is completed, the Board will deliberate and make a determination whether or not there was a violation of policy or procedures, or whether it is inconclusive.

Depending on the finding, any party to the complaint may request that the Board order a hearing, which is done at the discretion of the Board based on the evidence the Board has received. If a hearing is held, the Board will render a final decision. In addition, even if the Board finds that there was no violation of policy or procedures, it may make recommendations to the City Manager and the Police Commissioner about changes that can be made to avoid similar situations in the future

No, an attorney is not necessary.

• Provide for citizen participation in reviewing Police Department policies, practices, and procedures;
• Provide a prompt, impartial and fair investigation of complaints brought by individuals against members of the Cambridge Police Department; and 
• Develop programs and strategies to promote positive police/community relations and to provide opportunities for expanded discussions, improved understanding, and innovative ways of resolving differences.

The Police Review & Advisory Board consists of five civilian residents of Cambridge who are representative of the racial composition, social composition, and economic composition of the city. View the current membership of the Police Review & Advisory Board on the Open Meeting Portal.