For Denver’s Office of the Independent Monitor to have effective oversight of the city’s safety department, it must have better access to records and more cooperation from agencies.
A bill being discussed by the City Council would legislate exactly those provisions, which is a step in the right direction.
Former Mayor John Hickenlooper created the independent monitor position in 2004 to review police actions in the wake of controversial shootings.
Current monitor Nick Mitchell has issued many substantive findings, notably being the first to reveal the dozens of serious allegations.
That report released in December 2013 spurred a major overhaul of the agency that is ongoing.
Regrettably, Mitchell has had pushback from the agencies, getting stonewalled when he requested records essential for his job.
Last year, the Citizen Oversight Board, which assesses the effectiveness of the Office of the Independent Monitor, asked the council to rewrite policies to access to documents, electronic records, personnel and other information not protected by law.
“There should be cooperation,” said Councilman Paul Lopez, chair of the council’s safety committee. “I understand it is a contentious relationship. But at the end of the day, it is about safety, creating trust between the public and Denver city government.”
Mayor Michael Hancock supports the changes that would require the police, sheriff and fire departments to cooperate with the monitor’s participation in internal investigations and disciplinary proceedings.
The changes also would ensure all safety records be provided within a “reasonable amount of time” — except those protected by attorney-client privilege.
Greater access and transparency for the independent monitor are necessary for continued sheriff reforms and to help police keep pace with national standards.
To send a letter to the editor about this article, submit or check out our for how to submit by e-mail or mail.
