Independent Police Auditor Presents Year 3 Report on Santa Rosa Police Department

The City of Santa Rosa is making strides in police oversight and community engagement, as highlighted in the recent report presented by the independent police auditor during the council meeting on July 22, 2025. This year marks the third report since the city appointed the OIR Group to enhance transparency and accountability within the police department, following significant calls for reform in 2020.

The auditor's report indicates a positive trend in the department's operations, noting a decrease in the number of recommendations made over the years. This reduction suggests that initial concerns have been addressed, allowing for a shift from basic oversight to more nuanced evaluations of police practices. The auditor emphasized that the city’s approach to real-time monitoring of complaints allows for immediate intervention, which can prevent cases from deteriorating and ensures that investigations are thorough and fair.

In 2024, the police department opened 62 cases based on public complaints, with 10 initiated internally. This represents a mere 0.05% of the total calls for service, which numbered just under 184,000. The auditor praised the department's commitment to engaging with complainants and improving their processes, highlighting a significant reduction in complaints related to homeless enforcement compared to previous years.

The report also introduced a new Major Incident Review Board, aimed at analyzing significant incidents to identify learning opportunities and improve departmental practices. This proactive approach is designed to foster a culture of continuous improvement within the police force.

Council members expressed appreciation for the report and the ongoing collaboration between the police department and the auditors. They emphasized the importance of maintaining open lines of communication with the community and ensuring that residents are aware of the oversight mechanisms in place.

As Santa Rosa continues to refine its police oversight practices, the city remains committed to transparency and accountability, fostering a safer and more responsive environment for its residents. The next steps include further community engagement and the implementation of the auditor's recommendations, reinforcing the city’s dedication to progressive policing and public safety.