Police

Professional Accountability

Mrs. Kennetha Sawyers
Mrs. Kennetha Sawyers

The Office of Professional Accountability was created in February 2000, replacing the existing Internal Security Division. Then-Police Chief Emmett Turner chose Mrs. Kennetha Sawyers, a Nashville attorney to head the new office, and Washington, D.C.-based PERF (Police Executive Research Forum) assisted in the creation of the office.

The office is responsible for:

  • Evaluating the internal investigations process and making recommendations on strategies and policies to improve complaint gathering and investigative procedures;
  • Classifying and reviewing all complaints made to the Office of Professional Accountability, directing all investigations, making recommendations regarding the disposition of cases, and ensuring consistency for proposed discipline;
  • Building and maintaining community outreach programs to educate the public about the Office of Professional Accountability's role in ensuring professional standards for police personnel.

How to make a complaint against police officers or civilian employees of the Metropolitan Police Department.

If you have questions or comments, you may contact the Office of Professional Accountability at (615) 862-7322.

You may also contact Mrs. Sawyers at Kennetha.Sawyers@Nashville.gov.