FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Monday, Oct. 3, 2022

CONTACT:
MayorPress@sandiego.gov

SAN DIEGO The City Council today approved the ordinance that implements the Commission on Police Practices, fulfilling the will of San Diego voters who in 2020 overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure that calls for independent oversight of law enforcement policies and practices. The implementation ordinance approved today establishes the Commissions composition, appointment process, and other operational matters.

After a clear mandate from voters and months of work, my administration is proud to operationalize the Citys new Commission on Police Practices that will independently investigate instances of officer misconduct and ensure we have the very best serving on our police force, said Mayor Todd Gloria. With this approval of the composition and interim operating procedures of the commission, their important work can get under way. This would not have been possible without Council President pro Tem Montgomery Steppe, and I thank her for her leadership.

City Council President pro Tempore Monica Montgomery-Steppe has been the leading voice on the City Council to get Measure B on the ballot and the Commission operational.

I'm proud of the transparent process that has amplified the voices of the most impacted in our community, said Council President pro Tem Montgomery Steppe. "Today marks a historic win for our communities, who deserve accountability and transparency from our law enforcement department. This ordinance moves us toward a proper checks and balances system as we continue to reimagine public safety."

Under the change to the City Charter from the ballot measure, the Commission was established as independent of the Mayor and the Police Department, with mandatory duties and discretionary power. The Commissions responsibilities include making reviewing misconduct investigations and proposed discipline of the Citys police officers.

If the Commission makes a finding of misconduct by a police officer, the City must afford the police officer an administrative appeal, in accordance with California law.

The Council can mandate additional duties and authorize additional powers for the Commission, provided they are consistent with the Charter and applicable federal and state laws.

Accountability is a cornerstone of justice and of a healthy democratic society. That is especially true when it comes to accountability for those entrusted with power. Today, our City Council invoked the will of the People, who overwhelmingly chose to establish the Commission on Police Practices in order to provide San Diegans with the confidence of knowing there will be transparency and accountability when abuses of police power occur, said Council President Sean Elo-Rivera. I thank and congratulate Council President Pro Tem Monica Montgomery Steppe and her team for their years of hard work to make San Diego a safer and more just community.

The City will continue to engage in collective bargaining with the Citys recognized employee organizations over the administrative appeals process following sustained findings by the Commission, as well as the permanent standard operating procedures for the commission.

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