WHISTLEBLOWER POLICY
Of
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.
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:
William M. Benwitz, PBA
President-Phone 613-1351 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.
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