August 2025 Newsletter from the Office of Community-based Police Accountability

Damon Lamarr Johnson's death underscores the urgent need for trauma-informed responses to individuals in mental health crises. As investigations continue, Portland prepares to implement a new Oversight System designed to enhance police accountability. This system includes the Office of Community-based Police Accountability (OCPA) and the Community Board for Police Accountability (CBPA), which will oversee investigations into police misconduct. The OCPA will be staffed by city employees who will report findings to the CBPA, a board of community volunteers appointed by the City Council. The new system replaces the Independent Police Review (IPR) and Citizen Review Committee (CRC) once operational.

The timeline for implementation includes finalizing background checks for new hires. The community is encouraged to engage with the oversight process, and questions can be directed to program administrator Kristen Thorp. The goal is to foster transparency and accountability in police actions, especially in light of tragic incidents like Johnson's death.