Complaints

File a complaint

Thank you for contacting the OCO. When submitting a complaint, you can provide your name or remain anonymous. However, please provide as much detail as possible, so we are able to contact you with any follow up questions or information. 

Your communication with us is confidential.

Call our hotline:

(844) OCO-INFO / (844) 626-4636

FAQs

Who may file a complaint with the Office of the Correctional Ombudsman (OCO)? 

Complaints may be filed from, or on behalf of an individuals incarcerated by, the Department of Juvenile Services and the Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services. 

Will the Department of Juvenile Services (DJS) or Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS) be aware of my complaint? 

No. The Office of the Correctional Ombudsman is designed to be a fact-finding agency that must adhere to confidentiality between the complainant and OCO. 

What types of matters are within the purview of the OCO? 

The OCO can investigate any administrative act that is determined to be contrary to law or regulations, based on a mistake of fact, unsupported by sufficient evidence, performed in an inefficient manner, or unreasonable under the totality of circumstances.

When should an incarcerated individual file a complaint? 

Prior to filing a complaint, a person must have reasonably pursued resolution of the complaint through the internal grievance procedure or appeal, as applicable. There are no time requirements for a complaint, but complaints involving current issues will receive priority.

How do I find information about the expungement process?

The expungement process is located on the DPSCS website. You will find information such as eligibility requirements and how to apply.