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Informational Report: Police Oversight Mechanisms December 15, 2020 Page 3 commission may make findings because of such investigations and make specific recommendations to administrators regarding discipline and/or policy. Advantages — Ability to provide increased public confidence in misconduct investigations and give the community a greater sense of inclusion. Provides additional oversight as investigations and findings come from an agency other than the police department. Disadvantages — Members must be highly trained and willing to spend a considerable amount of time to conduct fair, unbiased, and consistent investigations. Substandard investigations can create significant problems for the community and police department. The board or commission must have the ability to compel evidence (subpoena) and the ability to hear testimony from officers. Would require significant and adequate funding to function properly. Police Oversight Models without Investigatory Powers The same 2001 report summarizes police oversight models without investigatory powers as follows: This model consists of members who review police misconduct investigations to determine whether they were conducted appropriately and adequately. Members agree or disagree with findings of the internal affairs investigation and may make recommendations. This type may also provide proposals or recommendations regarding departmental policies. Advantages— Boards or commissions without investigatory powers can produce findings more quickly than an investigatory model. This model also provides an opportunity for residents to be directly involved and have input on policy issues. Disadvantages — A large amount of labor and time is required for those serving on the board or commission. Members must have some knowledge and training to identify problems in complex investigations. Without investigatory powers, the board or commission is limited to the evidence and investigation conducted by Internal Affairs. Members may feel obligated to pursue specific agendas or policies. City with Police Oversight with Investigatory Powers: Berkeley, CA City: Berkeley, CA Police Oversight Mechanism Name: Police Review Commission Classification: Investigation -Focused Model Scope of Authority / Responsibility: • To advise and make recommendations to the public, the City Council, and the city manager • To review and make recommendations concerning all written and unwritten policies, practices and procedures of whatever kind and without limitation, in relation to the Berkeley Police Department, other law enforcement agencies and intelligence and military agencies operating within the City, and law enforcement generally 65D-3