False Complaints
Rarely, citizens will file a false complaint against police employees. Citizens should be aware that this is a violation of the Texas Penal Code and, if found guilty, is punishable by a fine of $4,000 or up to one year in jail or both such fine and jail.
The Corinth Police Department is sincerely interested in the welfare of all citizens and in taking action where its employees have acted or behaved in violation of the policies, procedures, and practices of the department. If it becomes necessary for you to make a complaint, you can be assured that it will be given a fair and thorough investigation.
By the same token, if you have an occasion to see a police department employee doing outstanding work, we encourage you to tell them and/or us about it. The Corinth Police Department is comprised of professionals dedicated to serving you and our community.
Texas Government Code: Complaint Against Law Enforcement Officer or Firefighter
Sec. 614.022. Complaint to be in Writing and Signed by Complainant
To be considered by the head of a state agency or by the head of a fire or police department, the complaint must be:
(1) in writing, and
(2) signed by the person making the complaint.
Sec. 614.023. Copy of Complaint to be Given to Officer or Employee
(a) A copy of a signed complaint against a law enforcement officer, fire fighter, or police office shall be given to the officer or employee within a reasonable time after the complaint is filed.
(b) Disciplinary action may not be taken against the officer or employee unless a copy of the signed complaint is given to the officer or employee.
Acts 1993, 73rd Leg., ch/263. Sec.1, eff. 9-1-93
Texas Penal Code:
Sec. 37.02 Perjury.
(a) A person commits an offense, if with intent to deceive and with knowledge of the statements meaning:
(1) he makes a false statement under oath or swears to the truth of a false statement previously made and the statement is required or authorized by law to be made under oath; or
(2) he makes a false sworn declaration under Chapter 132, Civil Practice and Remedies Code.
(b) An offense under this section is a Class A misdemeanor.
Sec. 37.03. Aggravated Perjury.
(a) A person commits an offense if he commits perjury as defined in Section 37.02. and the false statement:
(1) is made during or in connection with an official proceeding; and
(2) is material.
(b) An offense under this section is a felony of the third degree.
