Progress on the Communitys Police Advisory Committees Recommendations On Police Oversight

The City of Tacoma is actively working to strengthen police oversight by introducing a new liaison position to support the Community’s Police Advisory Committee, focusing on transparency and accountability in the Tacoma Police Department. This liaison will possess significant expertise in legal requirements and law enforcement practices, facilitating a more thorough review of the committee's recommendations. A pivotal aspect of the newly established police contract is the mandate that the Chief of Police must place officers on unpaid leave if they are charged with felony offenses, a move aimed at enhancing accountability. Additionally, the Chief now has the authority to conduct internal investigations while criminal cases are ongoing, ensuring swift action on policy violations. The City is committed to establishing a robust model for police oversight that reflects community needs and expectations.

Continuous updates regarding these initiatives will be provided on the Tacoma Police Department’s webpage. This approach not only seeks to address critical issues of police accountability but also aims to engage the community in the oversight process. Tacoma's efforts position it as a leader in police reform, with a clear focus on long-term systems transformation.