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Whistleblower complaints
The Whistleblower Protection Code (KCC. 3.42) (117KB) lets county employees report suspected improper actions by a county employee while performing official duties.
Filing a whistleblower complaint
Before filing a complaint, review the Whistleblower Guide (74KB) and the Whistleblower Protection Code Summary (89KB). If you believe someone is in violation, please contact the Ombuds Office before filing your complaint.
To file a complaint, download and complete the Whistleblower Complaint Form (95KB). Please provide specific details and any relevant records you may have.
You can send completed complaint forms to us by email, fax, or postal mail. We encourage emails and faxes as physical mail may be delayed.
- Email: ombudsmail@kingcounty.gov
- Fax: 206-296-0948
- Mail: 810 3rd Ave, Suite 705, Seattle, WA 98104
After you file your complaint
We review it to determine if it meets the criteria for an investigation. We may decline to investigate after our review. We can also dismiss unfounded complaints.
Our investigation will determine whether reasonable cause exists that an ethics violation occurred. We'll provide a written report following the investigation. You may appeal our findings to the hearing examiner.
Protection from retaliation
Whistleblowers are protected from retaliation. If you believe you've been the victim of retaliation, contact the Ombuds Office. You can also file a Whistleblower Retaliation Complaint Form (116KB).