What We Do
The Department of Ombudsman assists individuals who have filed complaints involving the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department or the Office of Public Safety personnel. The Ombudsman acts independently from both the Sheriff’s Department and the Office of Public Safety.
When an individual is notified that a complaint was unfounded or not sustained and believes the investigation was incomplete or relevant facts were not considered, the person may contact the Ombudsman by telephone or in writing within 10 business days after receiving notification from the Sheriff’s Department or Office of Public Safety. If the investigating agency or the Department of Ombudsman does not receive such a response, the investigation outcome will be deemed final.
Upon receiving an inquiry, the Ombudsman will review the circumstances to determine what action may be appropriate. The Ombudsman may review the investigation or assign a judge, selected from a panel of retired judges approved by the Board of Supervisors for this purpose, to conduct the review.
The Ombudsman or reviewing judge will determine whether additional investigation is warranted. When the investigation is completed and a final disposition is made, the complainant will be notified in writing by the investigating agency.
Inquiries to the Department of Ombudsman, including requests for information or referrals, are always welcome. You may contact us by calling 1-800-801-0030 or email us at: ombudla@ombuds.lacounty.gov