What does the term "internal affairs" refer to in policing?

The term "internal affairs" in policing specifically refers to a unit or division within a law enforcement agency that is responsible for investigating allegations of misconduct by police officers. This can include issues such as excessive use of force, corruption, or any other actions that violate department policies or the law. The role of internal affairs is crucial for maintaining accountability within the police force and ensuring that officers adhere to the standards of conduct expected in their role.

By focusing on investigations related to officer behavior, internal affairs acts as a check on police actions and helps to uphold public trust in law enforcement. This function is separate from community outreach, financial oversight, or training units, which have their specific focuses that do not involve the assessment or accountability of existing officers' conduct. Thus, the accurate definition of "internal affairs" lies within its role in investigating misconduct.