When an act is determined to be legal and proper after investigation, how is it classified?

When an act is investigated and found to be legal and proper, it is classified as exonerated. This term specifically indicates that the individual involved has been cleared of any wrongdoing. In the context of police oversight, exoneration signifies that an individual's actions were justified within the framework of the law and departmental regulations.

This classification is important because it provides clarity and affirmation for officers involved in critical incidents, acknowledging that their decisions were appropriate under the circumstances. Unlike other classifications, such as unfounded or not sustained, which imply a lack of evidence or insufficient grounds to proceed, exonerated directly affirms the legality and propriety of the actions taken.

Understanding this classification helps personnel and supervisors recognize the difference between justified actions and those that may require further scrutiny, fostering a sense of justice and accountability within the law enforcement community.