65A - POLICE OVERSIGHT DIRECTION

Home Browse Search

Tampa Responding to concerns expressed by the community, civil rights groups, and the city council, Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn established the Citizens Review Board by executive order in February 2016.' The volunteer review board has nine voting members and two alternates who serve staggered 4-year terms. The board reviews disciplinary cases and other important issues identified by the police department and community. They report their findings to the Chief of Police and may also make recommendations for policy changes' To qualify, Review Board members have to complete the police department's Citizen Academy, be at least 18 years of age, and submit to a background check. They cannot work for the City of Tampa, be in law enforcement, directly related to anyone in the police department, and cannot have any felony or moral turpitude convictions.9 At board meetings held monthly, the lead Internal Affairs detective presents cases for the consideration of the Review Board. Auditor model Fresno The City of Fresno has two oversight bodies designed to improve accountability and community trust. The first is the Office of Independent Review (OIR). It was established in 2009 as a part-time position that operates separately from the police department. The OIR operates as an auditor and reviews the police department's policies, procedures, strategies, and internal investigations," The Independent Reviewer assesses the FPD's Internal Affairs investigations to ensure they are thorough and treat all parties fairly. In addition the office conducts audits of police department units to ensure they are operating within the framework of agency policy and procedures." The second oversight body is the Citizen's Public Safety Advisory Board. The city council approved the mayor's proposal to establish a nine -member board on March 16, 2017. The board conducts reviews of major incidents like officer -involved shootings (OIS). It also has the authority to review policies and prepare reports to the council and public. In addition the city council approved making the OIR a full-time rather than part-time position (Sheehan 2017).12 7. Sullivan, "Tampa's new Civilian Review Board convenes without acrimony." 8. Civilian Review Board, "Civilian Review Board." 9. Civilian Review Board, "Civilian Review Board." 10. City Manager's Office, "Office of Independent Review." 11. City Manager's Office, "Office of Independent Review." 12. Sheehan, "New Police Oversight Board." Civilian Oversight of the Police in Major Cities 65A-33