Commentary
Here is an article about Olympia, WA Police Civilian Oversight (HERE). Reviewing the article I have a few questions about Civilian Oversight of the Police. This is not exhaustive it is just what came to mind reading the article. Make sure to check out the Agenda Packet.
Police Department Accountability? Many municipalities have a similar issue. I ask who is in charge of the police department? The Olympia Police Department (OPD) appears to have a very centralized organizational structure. How is policy made and day to day operations influenced by the leadership of the department? Obviously the Chief is supposed to be the leader but for OPD how much of a leader can the Chief be? The Mayor is the government leader of OPD, but Olympia also has a City Manager and Deputy Manager who might also oversee OPD. The there is a Civilian Police Auditor and a Community Use of Force Board that have specific roles in oversight of OPD. In addition, as the article indicates, there is or will be Civilian Oversight of OPD. WOW – Really? Three (3) government heads (and probably several Council Members that probably think that they are in charge of OPD too), The COP, and three (3) oversight groups. ALL of this to run OPD? Why? Can’t the Chief do the job? If not get rid of him. Why are City managers needed? Can’t the Mayor run Olympic, MA? If not vote the Mayor out! Then finally 3 oversight groups to run OPD? What makes these people in these oversight groups suitable for police oversight? How are they accountable? Can they be fired – no, can they be voted out by the public – no. These oversight groups can make decisions that can hurt OPD and they CAN’T be held accountable. Think about that.
There are more issues that should be considered with police civilian oversight. What makes them suitable for police oversight? Do they get training? Civilian Oversight members get access to police records, does the FBI clear access to federal databases? Due the State authorities allow access to state records. Police have training and testing for clearance to State database systems and Federal database systems. How do the civilian oversight members accomplish this?
Many times Civilian Oversight groups write policy and investigate and discipline officers. What is the liability on the Civilian Oversight members and OPD, if policy is incorrect or mistakes are made disciplining officers?
Future of Policing 