What Is the Civilian Complaint Review Board and How Does It Investigate Police Abuse?

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Cindy Cordova

Legal Writer at The Orlow Firm | Website

Cindy Cordova is a seasoned legal writer with over seven years of experience crafting clear, informative, and professional content for law firm websites. With a B.A. in English from Trinity Christian College, she combines her strong writing background with a deep understanding of legal topics to help firms connect with their clients through trustworthy and accessible content.

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• July 8, 2025

What Is the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) in NYC?

Quick Answer:

The Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) operates as an independent oversight agency dedicated to investigating allegations of misconduct against officers of the New York City Police Department (NYPD). Its fundamental mission involves receiving, thoroughly investigating, and, where appropriate, mediating complaints from the public regarding police behavior. The CCRB also plays a vital role in formulating recommendations for disciplinary action. As an integral part of the New York City government, the CCRB is instrumental in promoting police accountability.

Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the CCRB:

• Independent Oversight: The CCRB maintains operational independence from the NYPD. This autonomy is crucial for ensuring that its investigations into complaints of police misconduct are conducted impartially and without undue influence from the police department itself.
• Jurisdiction: The agency’s authority extends specifically to the NYPD, which stands as one of the largest police forces within the United States. Its purview covers complaints of excessive force, abuse of authority, discourtesy, and offensive language by NYPD officers.
• Complaint Handling: The CCRB systematically investigates incoming complaints. This process includes gathering comprehensive evidence, which often involves conducting interviews with complainants, witnesses, and officers, as well as potentially subpoenaing documents and reviewing relevant records. Following the investigation, the CCRB prepares detailed reports outlining its findings.
• Disciplinary Recommendations: Upon concluding its investigations, the CCRB is empowered to recommend disciplinary measures to the Police Commissioner. These recommendations serve as a formal suggestion for action based on the evidence uncovered during the investigation.
• Mediation Program: The CCRB facilitates a mediation program as an alternative resolution pathway. This voluntary process allows individuals who have filed complaints to engage directly with the involved officers in an attempt to resolve their issues through mutual agreement, outside of formal disciplinary proceedings.
• Data Analysis: Beyond individual case investigations, the CCRB actively analyzes aggregated complaint data. This analytical work helps identify broader trends and recurring patterns of misconduct. Based on these insights, the CCRB can formulate and propose policy changes to the NYPD, aiming for systemic improvements.
• Public Engagement: The CCRB is committed to transparency and public awareness. It regularly holds monthly public meetings, providing a forum for community interaction. Additionally, the agency publishes various data and detailed reports concerning its activities and findings, making its work accessible to the public.

If you believe your rights were violated by a member of the NYPD, it’s important to know that filing a CCRB complaint is just one step. To understand all your legal options, including possible civil lawsuits, contact The Orlow Firm’s police misconduct attorneys at (646) 647-3398 for a free and confidential consultation.

How Does the CCRB Investigate Police Misconduct in New York City?

The Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) is responsible for investigating certain types of police misconduct in New York City. When someone files a complaint, the CCRB opens an investigation to look into what happened and determine whether an officer broke any rules.

Here is how the CCRB investigates police misconduct cases:

1. Interviewing the person who filed the complaint – The process often begins with an intake interview. A CCRB investigator will talk to the person who made the complaint to gather detailed information about what happened.
2. Gathering evidence – Investigators collect any available evidence. This can include video footage (such as body-worn camera video), police radio recordings, photographs, and medical records, if relevant.
3. Interviewing witnesses – Investigators speak with people who may have seen or heard the incident, including bystanders, friends, or family members. This helps them understand the full picture.
4. Interviewing the officer – The CCRB also talks to the officer accused of misconduct. Officers are required to cooperate during the interview and must answer questions honestly.
5. Reviewing official police documents – Investigators examine police reports, use-of-force paperwork, and any other relevant NYPD documents.

After gathering all this information, the CCRB decides if there is enough evidence to confirm that misconduct occurred. If they believe the officer broke NYPD rules, they prepare a report with their findings and recommend what the discipline should be, such as more training, a warning, or stronger action.

The CCRB only investigates specific types of misconduct. These include excessive force, rude or offensive language, improper searches, and abuse of authority—for example, stopping someone for no reason. They do not investigate criminal activity by police officers, which is handled by the District Attorney or other agencies.

The CCRB is separate from the NYPD, which helps make sure the review is fair and independent. Their main goal is to improve trust between the public and the police by holding officers accountable when needed.

If you believe your rights were violated by a member of the NYPD, it’s important to know that filing a CCRB complaint is just one step. To understand all your legal options, including possible civil lawsuits, contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free and confidential consultation.

What Types of Police Abuse Can You Report to the CCRB?

The Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) in New York City investigates certain types of police abuse and misconduct. The CCRB focuses on what are called “FADO” complaints. FADO stands for:

• Force : When a police officer uses physical force that is unnecessary or too extreme for the situation.
• Abuse of Authority : When an officer improperly uses their power, such as conducting an illegal search, threatening arrest for no reason, or refusing to provide a badge number when asked.
• Discourtesy : When an officer is rude, disrespectful, or uses inappropriate language toward a civilian.
• Offensive Language : When an officer uses language that is racist, sexist, or otherwise discriminatory or hateful.

Below are examples of situations that the CCRB can investigate:

• Excessive Force : An officer hits, pushes, or physically hurts someone without a clear and lawful reason.
• Wrongful Search or Seizure : Searching your belongings, car, or home without permission or a legal warrant.
• Improper Stop : Stopping someone on the street without reasonable suspicion or cause.
• Verbal Abuse : Yelling, cursing, or threatening behavior by an officer during a stop or investigation.
• Racial or Gender Slurs : Use of offensive words related to your race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, or disability.
• Refusing to Identify Themselves : An officer not giving their name or badge number when asked, which is something they are expected to do in most settings.

It’s important to know that the CCRB only investigates interactions between civilians and NYPD officers. It does not investigate school safety agents, traffic enforcement agents, or federal law enforcement. Also, the CCRB only handles cases involving the four types listed above. Matters like theft, corruption, or false arrest are typically handled by other departments, such as the NYPD’s Internal Affairs Bureau or the District Attorney’s Office.

If you believe you’ve been mistreated by a New York City police officer, you can file a complaint with the CCRB. You also have the right to speak with a personal injury lawyer. Police abuse can lead to physical, emotional, and financial harm. At The Orlow Firm, we help people understand their legal options. To discuss your rights, call us at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation.

Who Can File a Complaint with the Civilian Complaint Review Board?

Anyone can file a complaint with the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) in New York City. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen or live in New York City. You also do not need to be the person who experienced the police misconduct. The CCRB wants to hear from anyone who thinks a member of the NYPD may have acted inappropriately.

Here are the types of people who can file a CCRB complaint:

• The person directly affected by police misconduct – If you believe an NYPD officer used excessive force, was disrespectful, or violated your rights, you can file a complaint.
• Witnesses – If you saw something happen but were not personally involved, you can still file a complaint on behalf of the person you saw being mistreated.
• Family members or legal guardians – If your child or another close family member was mistreated by police, you can contact the CCRB on their behalf.
• Attorneys or advocates – Legal representatives or advocacy groups may also file complaints with the CCRB if they have been authorized to do so by the person affected.

There are no age limits either. Minors can file a complaint, and the CCRB will take it seriously. If you’re under 18, your parent or guardian may help you through the process.

You can file a complaint even if:

• You were not arrested or charged with a crime
• You did not get the officer’s name or badge number
• The incident happened weeks or even months ago (though sooner is better)
• You’re not sure whether the behavior counts as misconduct

Filing a complaint does not automatically mean you have to testify or go to court. The CCRB will guide you through the process and explain your options before asking you to participate further.

If you’re not sure whether your situation qualifies, it’s still a good idea to report it. If nothing else, it helps document the issue and may help others in the future.

If you’ve experienced or witnessed police misconduct in New York City and have questions about your legal rights, The Orlow Firm is here to support you. Call (646) 647-3398 for a free and confidential consultation.

What Happens After You File a Complaint with the CCRB?

After you file a complaint with the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) in New York City, the agency begins its process of reviewing and investigating your case. Here’s what typically happens next:

1. You’ll Get a Confirmation: Once you submit your complaint, the CCRB will send you a confirmation. This confirms they received your report and started a case file.
2. Case Screening: A CCRB staff member will look at the complaint to make sure it falls under their authority. The CCRB only handles certain types of police misconduct, like excessive force, abusive language, or unlawful stops. If it falls outside their power—for example, criminal behavior or corruption—it may be forwarded to another agency, like the Internal Affairs Bureau or another city office.
3. Investigator Assigned: If the complaint is accepted, it is assigned to an investigator. The investigator works for the CCRB and is not part of the NYPD.
4. You May Be Contacted: The investigator will likely reach out to you for a detailed interview. You may also be asked to provide evidence, like videos, photos, or medical records if you were injured. If there are witnesses, they may be contacted, too.
5. Officer Interviews: The CCRB will also interview the police officer or officers involved. In most cases, these interviews are recorded under oath.
6. Review of Evidence: The investigator may collect and review items like body-worn camera footage, police reports, dispatch recordings, or other records that help piece together what happened.
7. Investigation Outcome: After gathering all the evidence, the CCRB decides whether the officer committed misconduct. The case is closed with one of several findings—like “substantiated” or “unsubstantiated.” This part will be explained in more detail in the next section of the blog.

Throughout the process, you have the right to be informed. The CCRB should keep you updated, especially after major steps like interviews or case decisions.

Important Note: The CCRB does not have the power to fire or directly discipline officers—that decision is up to the NYPD Commissioner. However, the CCRB does make disciplinary recommendations if misconduct is confirmed.

If you’ve filed a complaint and feel the process is unclear or emotionally difficult, you’re not alone. Dealing with police misconduct can be painful and confusing. Speaking with a compassionate legal team can help you understand your options. If you’ve been harmed, The Orlow Firm may be able to help you explore other legal actions. For a free and confidential consultation, call us at (646) 647-3398.

What Are the Possible Outcomes of a CCRB Investigation?

After the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) finishes its investigation, it can reach several possible outcomes. These outcomes depend on the evidence they gather and whether they can prove that the officer broke any rules. The CCRB looks only at misconduct involving force, abuse of authority, discourtesy, or offensive language by NYPD officers.

Here are the most common outcomes of a CCRB investigation:

• Substantiated: The evidence supports the complaint, and the officer likely violated NYPD rules. The CCRB then recommends disciplinary action.
• Unsubstantiated: There is not enough evidence to say if the misconduct happened or not. This means the CCRB cannot prove the case either way.
• Exonerated: The investigation shows that the officer did what they were accused of, but the action was allowed under NYPD rules. So, no discipline is recommended.
• Unfounded: Evidence clearly shows that the incident did not happen as claimed. The complaint is dismissed.
• Other Closure: This includes situations where the case is closed without a full investigation—for example, if the person who made the complaint withdraws it or cannot be contacted.

If the complaint is substantiated, the CCRB can recommend discipline. This may include:

• Training: The officer may be required to take a class to better understand proper procedures or behavior.
• Command Discipline: A lighter form of discipline handled inside the NYPD. It can include warnings or assignment changes.
• Charges and Specifications: A more serious step where the officer may face a formal disciplinary trial inside the NYPD. This could lead to suspension or being fired. Only the police commissioner can decide to carry out this level of punishment.

It’s important to know that while the CCRB can recommend actions, it does not have the power to fire or punish officers directly. The final decision lies with the NYPD commissioner.

If you’ve filed a CCRB complaint and are unsure what your outcome means, or if you’re considering legal action after police misconduct, speaking with a personal injury lawyer can help. Call The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free and confidential consultation.

Does the CCRB Work with the NYPD During Investigations?

The Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) is fully independent from the NYPD. However, the CCRB often needs information from the NYPD to complete its investigations. While the CCRB does not report to the police department, the two do communicate during an ongoing investigation.

The CCRB gathers evidence directly from the person filing the complaint, witnesses, and sometimes even video recordings or photos. To do this effectively, the CCRB may also request records from the NYPD, including:

• Body-worn camera footage from the involved officers
• Police reports written by responding officers
• Radio transmissions and dispatch recordings
• Officer histories , such as past complaints or disciplinary actions

While the CCRB relies on the NYPD for these materials, it does not allow the police to control or interfere with the investigation. The CCRB is meant to act as a neutral, unbiased agency that works for the public, not for the police.

In some serious cases, the CCRB may also conduct interviews with the officer accused of wrongdoing. These interviews, called official interrogations, are usually recorded. The NYPD officer has the right to have a union representative or lawyer present during the interview.

After the investigation is finished, if the CCRB finds misconduct, they recommend discipline to the NYPD. But only the police commissioner has the final say on whether to follow that recommendation. This is one reason why some people feel the CCRB does not have enough power, even though it does important work gathering facts and giving victims a voice.

In summary, while the CCRB and NYPD are separate, they must work together at certain points in an investigation. The CCRB requests key information, but it stays independent and focused on protecting the rights of people in New York City.

How Long Does a CCRB Investigation Typically Take?

The length of a Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) investigation in New York City can vary. In most cases, an investigation takes about six months from the date the complaint is filed. However, some cases may take more or less time depending on several factors.

Here are some factors that can affect how long your CCRB investigation might take:

• The complexity of the case : If there are many officers involved or the events are unclear, it may take longer to review all the facts.
• Availability of evidence : The CCRB may need to gather video footage, documents, or other materials. Delays can happen if this evidence is hard to find or takes time to obtain.
• Witness interviews : It can take time to contact and interview all the witnesses, including officers and members of the public.
• Cooperation from the NYPD : Investigators may need help from the police department to access records or speak with officers. If cooperation is delayed, the case can take longer to complete.

Once the CCRB finishes gathering evidence, they decide whether the complaint has enough proof to show misconduct happened. If it does, they recommend discipline to the NYPD. The NYPD Commissioner then decides what action, if any, to take.

It’s important to know that while the CCRB tries to keep investigations timely, every case is different. Some might be resolved faster, especially if the facts are straightforward. Others, especially serious or complicated cases, may take longer than expected.

Throughout the process, complainants can contact the CCRB to ask about the status of their case. If you or a loved one is waiting for an outcome and need help understanding your legal options, filing a separate claim, or want to protect your rights, you can contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free consultation.

What Are Your Rights During a CCRB Complaint Process?

When you file a complaint with the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) in New York City, you have certain rights throughout the process. These rights are in place to protect you and ensure a fair investigation. Whether you’re the person filing the complaint or a witness, it’s important to understand what you can expect.

Here are the key rights you have during the CCRB complaint process:

• You have the right to file a complaint at no cost. The CCRB accepts complaints online, by phone, by mail, or in person. There are no fees involved.
• You have the right to remain informed. The CCRB must keep you updated on the status of your complaint. You can request updates throughout the investigation.
• You have the right to be interviewed. As the person filing the complaint, you will be offered an interview. This gives you a chance to tell your side of the story, share any evidence, and list witnesses.
• You have the right to bring evidence and witnesses. You can submit photos, videos, documents, and contact information for people who saw what happened.
• You have the right to be treated with respect. CCRB investigators must treat you professionally and without judgment during the entire process.
• You have the right to a translator or interpreter. If English is not your first language, the CCRB will provide language support to help you during interviews or written communication.
• You have the right to review the outcome. Once the CCRB finishes its investigation, you will receive a letter explaining the findings and the result of your complaint.
• You have the right to appeal in some cases. If your complaint involves the most serious types of misconduct and the CCRB decides there is no wrongdoing, you may be able to challenge the decision through an appeal process.

It’s important to note that while the CCRB can recommend discipline for police officers, it does not have the power to fire or suspend them directly. Only the NYPD Police Commissioner has that authority. However, your complaint and rights through the CCRB can still lead to accountability and change.

If you have experienced police abuse and are unsure about your options, or if your rights were violated, consider speaking with a personal injury attorney. Contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 to discuss your situation in a private, no-obligation consultation.

Can You Sue the NYPD Separately from a CCRB Complaint?

Yes, you can sue the NYPD separately from filing a complaint with the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB). A CCRB complaint is about holding officers accountable for misconduct. A lawsuit, however, is about getting compensation for the harm you suffered. These are two different legal processes, and you can pursue both at the same time if your case qualifies.

When Can You File a Lawsuit?

You may be able to sue the NYPD or the City of New York if police misconduct caused you harm. These harms could be physical injuries, emotional distress, or damage to your reputation or property. Common legal reasons to file a lawsuit include:

• False arrest: Being arrested without a lawful reason.
• Excessive force: When an officer uses more physical force than necessary.
• Malicious prosecution: Being charged with a crime even when there’s no solid evidence.
• Unlawful search or seizure: When officers search or take your property without a warrant or legal reason.

How Is a Lawsuit Different from a CCRB Complaint?

The CCRB investigates police misconduct and may recommend discipline for officers. But it cannot award you money or damages. A lawsuit can result in financial compensation for things like:

• Medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Ongoing emotional stress

Important Deadlines for Suing the NYPD

If you’re thinking about suing the NYPD, you must act quickly. In New York City, you usually must:

1. File a Notice of Claim: This tells the city about your injury and that you plan to sue. It must be filed within 90 days of the incident.
2. File the lawsuit: In most cases, you must file your lawsuit within one year and 90 days of the incident.

Missing these deadlines can prevent you from bringing your case to court.

Can You Sue Without Filing a CCRB Complaint?

Yes, you can file a lawsuit even if you never reported the incident to the CCRB. However, a CCRB investigation might help by providing additional records or findings that support your case.

How a Lawyer Can Help

Navigating both CCRB complaints and lawsuits can be complicated. A personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, meet legal deadlines, and gather the evidence needed to support your claim.

If you or someone you love has been harmed by police misconduct in New York City, you may be able to get compensation through a civil lawsuit. For help understanding your options, contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free and confidential consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Civilian Complaint Review Board in NYC

Need Help After Police Misconduct? Contact The Orlow Firm for a Free Consultation

If you or someone you love has experienced police misconduct in New York City, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. The Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB) is an agency that investigates complaints against NYC police officers, but it does not provide legal representation or financial compensation. That’s where we may be able to help.

The Orlow Firm helps individuals who have suffered harm due to police misconduct, including:

• Excessive force: Physical harm from police actions beyond what was necessary.
• False arrest: Being arrested without legal grounds or probable cause.
• Unlawful search and seizure: Police searching your home, car, or person without a proper warrant or valid reason.
• Wrongful detention: Being held by police without legal justification.

While filing a complaint with the CCRB is one step, it does not cover your right to pursue a civil lawsuit. If your rights were violated and you suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm, you may be entitled to take legal action against the City of New York or individual officers. This can include compensation for medical bills, lost wages, emotional distress, and other damages.

Here’s how The Orlow Firm can support you:

• We investigate: Our team gathers evidence, interviews witnesses, and reviews police records if available.
• We explain your rights: We help you understand what legal steps you can take in addition to filing with the CCRB.
• We file necessary claims: If appropriate, we pursue civil lawsuits alongside or after your CCRB complaint.
• We stand by you: We provide guidance and support through each stage of your case, including city claims and court proceedings.

Time matters in these cases. In New York, you must often file a legal notice with the city within 90 days of the incident to preserve your right to sue. The CCRB complaint does not pause this deadline.

If you believe your rights have been violated by the NYPD, don’t wait. Contact The Orlow Firm at (646) 647-3398 for a free, confidential consultation. We can help you understand your options and take the next steps toward justice and recovery.

The Following People Contributed to This Page

Cindy Cordova

Legal Writer at The Orlow Firm | Website

Cindy Cordova is a seasoned legal writer with over seven years of experience crafting clear, informative, and professional content for law firm websites. With a B.A. in English from Trinity Christian College, she combines her strong writing background with a deep understanding of legal topics to help firms connect with their clients through trustworthy and accessible content.

Read More