If a member of the public wishes to submit a complaint and does not want to complete an OPC-1, what should the officer do?

Offering to complete the OPC-1 for the person is the correct course of action in this situation because it facilitates the complaint process while accommodating the individual's preferences. By taking the initiative to fill out the form on their behalf, the officer ensures that the complaint is officially documented, which is crucial for accountability and transparency within the department.

This approach also fosters a positive interaction with the community, showing that the department values public input and is willing to assist individuals who may feel overwhelmed or unsure about the formal complaint process. It helps to maintain trust between the police force and the community by ensuring that concerns are heard and recorded appropriately.

While gathering information verbally or asking for the individual’s identity might seem practical, these actions do not offer the same level of formalization and support as completing the OPC-1 directly. Refusing to take the complaint is not in line with the principles of community engagement and accountability that law enforcement agencies strive to uphold.