Police Officer's Rights

Bridgeport Police Union Local 1159

Police Officer's Rights/ Education

Internal Investigation - Garrity Rights.

Must be ordered to answer questions.

Questions must relate to officer's duties or fitness for duty.

Must be advised that failure to answer will be considered insubordination and could lead to discipline up to and including termination.

Must be provided with some degree of immunity from criminal prosecution.

You have CONSTITUTIONAL RIGHTS, particularly the right to be free from compulsory Self-incrimination and the right to procedural due process.

Your Union will defend your rights if you request assistance. Always call your union before making a decision to answer questions.

IF INVOLVED IN A DEADLY USE OF FORCE

Always call the Union President and an Executive Board member, it during these trying times that you need a cushion to insulate yourself in order to "catch your breath". Don't think someone else is going to call, the worst you'll hear in this situation is "I've already been told, I'm on the way!" Just call!!!

The Union has been providing ongoing education to Executive Board members and Stewards in order to deal with these situations. We need to protect our fellow Brothers and Sisters during these stressful times.

Criminal Investigation - Fifth Amendment/Miranda.

You have the right to remain silent and to an attorney; Do not be afraid to invoke these rights in order to consult with an attorney before speaking with an investigator.

Internal Investigation - Weingarten rights.

You have the right to the presence of a Union Official whenever you are requested or required to give a statement which you believe could result in your discipline or discharge.

Unless you request the presence of a union official you will be deemed to have waived that right.

Prior to, or during your interrogation, you may review any reports or statements you may have made on the subject of your interrogation.

During the interrogation, you may consult with your Union Representative in the absence of the interrogator.

You are not required to answer any questions concerning your off duty conduct during the interrogation, unless your off duty conduct involves action regarding your Capacity as a police officer.

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Here are some basic definitions used in the workplace to address issues concerning working/contractual issues;

What is a complaint?

A complaint is when an employee or group of employees believes that they are
being subjected to unfair or disparate treatment by a supervisor. A complaint may
also result if an employee believes that they are being harassed or discriminated
against for any reason, or have been unfairly disciplined. Any member who feels
that they have been violated, or who believes that the Contract is being violated,
should document the incident and contact an E-Board member as soon as possible. All complaints are investigated by a member of the Executive Board.
REMEMBER: Not all complaints are grievances.

What is a grievance?

A grievance, as defined under Article 12 Grievance Procedure, in the Collective Bargaiining Agreement, is when a member feels aggrieved concerning wages, hours or conditions of employment which are covered under this agreement or provided for in any Statutes, Charter provision, Ordinance, Rule or Regulation which is not in conflict with this agreement, or any matter or condition in the employee/employer relationship including any claim of unjust discrimination, conditions affecting health or safety, and transfers/ assignments.

What is an MPP?

Some examples of an MPP, or Municipal Prohibited Practice, are when
management violates a prior grievance settlement or refuses to comply with and
implement a grievance settlement or arbitration award, or when management
violates any provision of the Municipal Employee Relations Act or M.E.R.A.