ST. LOUIS – The Board of Police Commissioners formally approved Rule 7 during Wednesday’s Board meeting, establishing comprehensive and updated complaint and disciplinary procedures for the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.
Rule 7 reflects months of structured collaboration through the Department’s Labor Management Committee — comprised of representatives of the Board of Police Commissioners, Internal Affairs commanders, the St. Louis Police Officers’ Association, the Ethical Society of Police, and the St. Louis Police Leadership Organization.
Every discussion, debate and amended item related to Rule 7 occurred during public committee meetings, ensuring a transparent forum for clarity, fairness, and accountability.
The newly adopted rule provides clear structure and guidance for how complaints are received, investigated, reviewed, and resolved. Key components include:
- Formal procedures for receiving citizen and internal complaints
- Standardized categorization of findings
- Defined timelines and documentation requirements
- Structured investigative protocols for the Force Investigation Unit and Internal Affairs
- Requirements for evidence collection, interviews, and reporting
- Due process hearing prior to final findings
Rule 7 formalizes the classification of investigative outcomes, including:
- Sustained (policy violation supported by evidence)
- Not Sustained
- Exonerated
- Unfounded
When violations are sustained, discipline may include progressive measures such as:
- Written reprimand
- Suspension
- Demotion
- Termination
Due Process & Review Rights:
- Notice requirements to employees
- Opportunity to respond to allegations
- Established appeal mechanisms
- Defined review authority by the Chief and Board, consistent with Missouri law
Board of Police Commissioners President Chris Saracino emphasized that transparency was central to the process.
“The adoption of Rule 7 represents a significant milestone for this Board and for the people of St. Louis,” said President Saracino. “Accountability and fairness are not opposing principles — they must work together. Rule 7 ensures both.”
Chief of Police Robert J. Tracy highlighted the operational importance of the updated procedure.
“Clear and consistent disciplinary procedures are critical to maintaining trust — both within the Department and in the community we serve. Rule 7 provides structure, clarity, and due process,” said Chief Tracy. “Our officers deserve clear standards, and the public deserves confidence that complaints are handled thoroughly and fairly. This rule strengthens both.”
The development of Rule 7 was conducted entirely within the framework of Missouri law and reflects the role of the citizen-led Board of Police Commissioners in establishing governance standards.
The Labor Management Committee’s collaborative approach ensured that perspectives from Internal Affairs leadership, Board representatives, and labor organizations were considered at every stage.
