What does "sustained" mean in the context of a complaint investigation?

In the context of a complaint investigation, the term "sustained" indicates that the investigation found sufficient evidence to support the allegations made against an officer. This means that after reviewing the evidence, testimonies, and all relevant information, the investigators concluded that the claims are valid and that there is a factual basis for the complaint.

Understanding this term is crucial in the realm of police accountability and internal review processes, as it can lead to corrective actions, policy changes, or disciplinary measures if the allegations pertained to misconduct. Other terms such as "not sustained" or "exonerated" carry different implications, which help clarify the outcomes of investigations. For instance, saying an allegation was deemed "false" or that there was "not enough evidence" reflects a lack of support for the claims made, while stating an officer's actions were "deemed appropriate" suggests that the officer's conduct was justified under the circumstances presented.