Police/Inmate Brutality

Both police and inmate brutality are serious issues in Florida, with multiple reports and ongoing legal cases. State and federal agencies are responsible for investigating these allegations, and citizens have avenues for reporting incidents. 

Police Brutality in Florida

Police misconduct, including excessive force, is a documented concern across Florida, with a study finding "hotspots" of incidents in several counties, including Miami-Dade, Leon, Duval, Hillsborough, and Bay. Allegations are handled by local internal affairs divisions, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE), or federal authorities if civil rights violations are suspected. 

How to Report Police Brutality

  • Local Authorities: Most local police departments have an internal affairs (IA) division to which you can submit a complaint online, by phone, or in person.

  • Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE): The FDLE's Office of the Inspector General handles complaints against law enforcement personnel within the state.

  • Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): For suspected civil rights violations, you can contact the FBI directly.

  • Department of Justice (DOJ): The DOJ Civil Rights Division accepts reports via an online form for potential federal action. 

Inmate Brutality in Florida

The Florida Department of Corrections (FDC) has faced numerous accusations and legal challenges regarding inmate abuse and staff misconduct, including severe beatings and failure to report incidents. The FDC has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse and harassment under the Prison Rape Elimination Act (PREA). 

How to Report Inmate Abuse

  • FDC Office of the Inspector General (OIG): The OIG investigates complaints of physical abuse, excessive force, sexual misconduct, and other criminal activity within state correctional facilities. You can file a report using their Citizen Complaint Form or call (850) 488-9265.

  • Emergency Action Center (EAC): For immediate emergencies, call the EAC at (850) 922-6867 or the facility directly.

  • FDC Office of Citizens Services: This office assists with general inquiries and can help direct complaints to the appropriate division. They can be reached at (850) 488-7052.

  • Federal Authorities: You can also report abuse to the FBI or the Department of Justice's Office of the Inspector General (for federal prisons).