Which statement accurately describes who forwards the IA file to the Sheriff after it is received by the Major?

• A. The Deputy forwards the IA file to the Sheriff
• B. The Major forwards the IA file to the Sheriff
• C. The Captain forwards the IA file to the Sheriff
• D. The Sheriff directly receives the file from the complainant

Answer: (B)

When it comes to Internal Affairs matters, the flow follows the established chain of command and escalation path. Once the Major has the IA file, the next essential step is for the Major to forward that file to the Sheriff for final review and disposition. This ensures top-level oversight and proper accountability, keeping serious internal investigations within the authorized authority to decide on their next actions.

A Deputy typically handles the day-to-day intake or investigation work, not the formal escalation to the Sheriff. A Captain may be involved in the investigation’s oversight, but the responsibility to move the file up to the Sheriff rests with the Major. Having the Sheriff receive the file directly from the complainant would bypass the established internal process and undermine the proper chain of command.