“Mayor Ginther understands that it has been a tough, emotional and painful time for our City. He is committed that in the days and weeks to come, residents can expect clear and tangible actions regarding policing. This includes taking action on the recommendations in the Matrix Report and the Columbus Community Safety Advisory Commission. Already, nearly two thirds of the recommendations made by the Community Safety Advisory Commission have been implemented or are in the process of being implemented. These include:
- Independent investigations of internal and external discrimination complaints
- Creation of community affairs/relations bureau and youth services unit
- Expanded access to language services
- Cultural competency training
- Juvenile justice training and de-escalation with youth
Mayor Ginther has stated that a civilian review board of some type will be the top priority in negotiations with the Fraternal Order of Police. He announced the formation of a work group by July 1 to develop a model for the civilian review board, with the goal of having the review board established by end of 2020. The Mayor has also said he will request a third-party investigation into all incidents of fatal use of force and other use of force complaints and violations of Division policy that demand independent review. This recommendation will require engaging the state and the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigation. In addition, as a follow-up to the Matrix Report, the City is evaluating the use-of-force continuum, especially as it relates to the use of spray agents to disperse crowds.
For residents who have evidence of the Columbus Division of Police using excessive force during recent protests, please send as much detail as possible to reportCPD@columbus.gov. This includes any photos, videos, or accounts. Information will be investigated by a civilian (outside the chain of command) from the Department of Public Safety’s Equal Employment Opportunity Compliance Office. This Office was created last year to address discrimination complaints.
In February, the Mayor announced his Equity Agenda which calls out racism and discrimination where it exists and his plans to address it. He is committed to working with the community to implement the agenda so that every resident in every neighborhood shares in the success of Columbus.”
