10 PRINCIPLES FOR AN EFFECTIVE CITIZEN REVIEW BOARD
FROM
THE ACLU OF SONOMA COUNTY
INDEPENDENCE: The power to conduct hearings, subpoena witnesses who testify under oath and report findings and recommendations to the public.
INVESTIGATORY POWER: The authority to independently investigate incidents and issue findings on complaints.
MANDATORY POLICE COOPERATION: Complete access to police witnesses and documents through legal mandate or subpoena power.
ADEQUATE FUNDING: Should not be a lower budget priority than police internal affairs.
HEARINGS: Essential for solving credibility questions and enhancing public confidence in process.
REFLECT COMMUNITY DIVERSITY: Board & staff should be broadly representative of the community it serves.
POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS: Citizen oversight can spot problem policies and provide a forum for developing reform.
STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: Public statistical reports can detail trends in allegations, and early warning systems can identify officers who are subjects of unusually numerous complaints.
SEPARATE OFFICES: Should be housed away from police headquarters to maintain independence and credibility with public.
DISCIPLINARY ROLE: Board findings should be considered in determining appropriate disciplinary action.
HELP ESTABLISH MEANINGFUL CITIZEN REVIEW BOARDS IN SONOMA COUNTY
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THE ACLU
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P.O. Box 14181, Santa Rosa CA 95402
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