Purpose

The Rochester Police Benevolent Association (the “PBA”) is committed to high standards of ethical, moral and legal conduct. In line with this commitment, and the PBA’s commitment to open communication, this policy aims to provide an avenue for members, employees and agents to raise concerns related to the PBA, and reassurance that complaints will be protected from reprisals or victimization for whistleblowing.



This whistleblowing policy is intended to cover protections for a complainant who raises concerns regarding the PBA, such as concerns regarding:

(1) incorrect financial reporting

(2) unlawful activity

(3) activities that are not in line with the Charter and Bylaws or policies of the PBA; or

(4) activities which otherwise amount to serious improper conduct.


Safeguards

Harassment or Victimization-Harassment or victimization for reporting concerns under this policy will not be tolerated.



Confidentiality-Every effort will be made to treat the complainant’s identity with appropriate regard for confidentiality.



Anonymous Allegations-This policy encourages members, employees and agents to put their names to allegations, because appropriate follow-up questions and investigations may not be possible unless the source of the information is identified. Concerns expressed anonymously will be explored appropriately, but consideration will be given to:

(1) the seriousness of the issue raised

(2) the credibility of the concern; and

(3) the likelihood of confirming the allegations from attributable sources.



Bad Faith Allegations –Allegations in bad faith may result in disciplinary action.



Procedure: Process for Raising a Concern


This whistleblowing procedure is intended to be used for serious and sensitive issues. Such concerns, including those related to financial reporting, and unethical or illegal conduct, may be reported directly to:



Michael Van Roo, PBA President, pbarochester@gmail.com , Phone (585) 730-1484 or at 1425 Lexington Avenue, Rochester, NY 14606

OR

To any member of the Board of Trustees of the PBA (names and addresses available upon request from the PBA Secretary.)



Although the complainant is not expected to prove the truth of the allegation, the complainant should be able to demonstrate to the person contacted that the report is being made in good faith.



The action taken by the PBA in response to a report of concern under this policy will depend on the nature of the concern. The Board of Trustees of the PBA, and/or the appropriate Committee of the Board shall receive information on each report of the concern and follow-up information on actions taken.



The amount of contact between the complainant and the person or persons investigating the concern will depend on the nature of the issue and the clarity of the information provided. Further information may be sought from or provided to the complainant.