CPRC approves drafting a written request to secure access to case files; commissioners debate independence and triage process

The Community Police Review Commission voted Sept. 24 to authorize drafting a formal written request asking for access to investigative case files under the city code so commissioners can review investigations necessary to fulfill their oversight role.

Commissioners said they had only just received a summary list of available case files and want a formal, written process to request specific cases. Acting chair Commissioner Franco explained the item is meant to establish written documentation that the commission is requesting access and to create a workflow for selecting cases for the review working group. Several commissioners said they believed access to records is a right under the city code, but that administrative hurdles and new legal requirements (including background-check or confidentiality rules) have complicated implementation.

Gail McCant, director of the Office of Police Oversight, explained OPO will assist with onboarding and administrative support, including providing laptops and information about software and file-sharing options; she said commissioners may begin service immediately and do not have to complete training before starting their duties. Law department staff (referred to in discussion as Neil) described the interagency review process and said legal analysis will inform how confidential materials are handled and whether executive sessions are needed to triage case selections.

Commissioners discussed whether to convene another executive session to review newly disclosed information and to refine the selection process. After debate, a motion to approve drafting the written request and to proceed with a working-group process passed on a show-of-hands vote. The commission did not finalize the language of the request during the meeting; the drafting will proceed outside the meeting and return for approval when complete.

Commissioners emphasized that CPRC’s role is review of completed investigations and not to conduct investigations themselves; they urged members of the public to file complaints with OPO so cases can be investigated and reach the commission for review.