Navigating Internal Affairs: How to Handle an Arrest Involving a Superior Officer

Welcome to our discussion on a rather unusual yet real-life scenario faced by many police officers: arresting a colleague who outranks you. I, a veteran officer, once found myself in such a situation. This article aims to provide insights on what to do and how to handle such a delicate situation, focusing on the protocol and procedures involved.

Understanding the Terrain

When you find yourself in a position that requires arresting another police officer, typically a superior, the first thing to recognize is the unique dynamic at play. Unlike ordinary citizens, the standard protocol for law enforcement is slightly different due to the inherent hierarchy and trust that exists within the department.

Initial Response: The Intimidation Factor

Often, when such an arrest is made, the arrested superior might try to intimidate the arresting officer. This can manifest in various ways, from verbal threats to attempts to order the releasing of the officer. However, it is essential to understand that, in the eyes of the law, this does not change the fact that you are acting within the legal boundaries of your duty. It's crucial to maintain a firm yet respectful demeanor, ensuring that the integrity of the law and the public trust are not compromised.

Documentation and Reporting

The next step is to ensure that the arrest is fully documented. This includes:

Recording a detailed account of the incident, including witness statements, if available.

Submitting the case details to your superiors and, if necessary, to Internal Affairs.

Maintaining clear, impartial records of all interactions and the legal process involved.

This documentation is critical as it supports and validates your actions, providing a clear record of what happened and the justification for taking the action.

Engagement with Internal Affairs

It is highly likely that you will be interviewed by Internal Affairs regarding the circumstances of the arrest. During these interviews, it's important to:

Be concise and factual in your statements, providing all necessary details.

Avoid making unnecessary assumptions or speculations.

Stay professional, maintaining your composure at all times.

During this process, it's crucial to follow the guidance provided by Internal Affairs, as they are responsible for investigating all such cases and ensuring the proper handling of the situation.

Subsequent Events

While the initial interview with Internal Affairs is an important step, it is not always the end of the process. In my case, after the interview, I was kept under scrutiny by Internal Affairs for a period. It is a common practice for the department to keep all aspects of the case under review until the final investigation is completed.

What happened after this period was eventful. I heard nothing further about the arrest, which suggests that either the investigation concluded without further action, or my actions were validated and found to be within the bounds of my duty.

Conclusion

Arresting a superior officer is an extraordinary event in any law enforcement career. It requires a careful balance of professional conduct, adherence to protocol, and maintaining the trust and integrity of the police force. By understanding the correct approach to such a situation and following the established procedures, officers can navigate through these challenging situations effectively, ensuring both legal and professional standards are upheld.

Keywords: police protocol, internal affairs, superiors in police

For further reading, we recommend exploring articles on police procedures and Internal Affairs investigations.