Council member adds annual DPD training to closing resolution after public calls for language access and accountability

Detroit 'Public comment at a Detroit City Council budget hearing on an unspecified date focused on the Detroit Police Department's use of language services, immigration-related interactions and internal training; Councilmember Gabriela Santiago Romero moved to add annual DPD training requirements to the meeting's closing resolution, and the change was adopted by unanimous consent.

Why it matters: Commenters and council members said language access and officer training affect immigrants' willingness to report crimes and overall community trust in policing. The council added language requiring annual training at the start of each year to the closing resolution; Council staff will provide the final wording.

Several residents, immigrant-rights advocates and community members urged the council to ensure the DPD has both resources and clear policies so officers do not rely on federal immigration authorities for interpretation and so all officers receive up-to-date training. William M. Davis, a Detroit resident, said the city should create…