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What is the UC Santa Barbara PAB?

The UC Santa Barbara Police Accountability Board (PAB) develops and promotes accountability, trust and communication between the campus community and the UC Santa Barbara Police Department. The PAB is an independent accountability board composed of students, staff and faculty from the UC Santa Barbara community. Two functions are central to the PAB’s work. First, the PAB independently reviews investigation reports and makes recommendations to the Chief of Police following investigations of complaints from the campus community or general public (also referred to as civilian complaints). Second, both over the course of complaint review and in proactive efforts to evaluate UCSB PD culture department‐wide, the PAB reviews UCSB PD policies, procedures, practices and trainings and makes recommendations when the PAB identifies possible improvements or blind spots. The PAB also solicits public input during open meetings. The PAB is committed to a fair and unbiased approach throughout its work.

Who can file a complaint?

Any person directly affected by UC Santa Barbara police misconduct may file a complaint. You do not need to be a UC Santa Barbara student, staff or faculty member, or a U.S. citizen, to file a complaint. Anonymous complaints are accepted.

Examples of complaints

• Improper arrest, search, seizure or stop
• Improper or inadequate investigation
• Improper detention procedure
• Improper police procedures
• Excessive force
• Discrimination
• Harassment
• Discourtesy

Why should I file a complaint with the PAB?

The PAB is staffed by University students and employees who are independent from the Police Department. Complaints from the community are important to us. Without such input from community members, the University may not be aware of police misconduct and cannot take steps to address it. All complaints will receive a fair and objective review. Complaints are received, reviewed and investigated by UC Davis Office of Compliance. Investigation reports are then forwarded to the UCSB Police Accountability Board for independent review, and their recommendations are sent to the UC Santa Barbara Chief of Police.