Unfettered access to the subject law enforcement agency’s records is vitally important for effective civilian oversight. The ability to review all records relevant to an investigation or other matters within the scope of a civilian oversight agency’s authority in a timely manner is essential to providing effective, informed, and fact-driven oversight. Similarly, agencies performing correctional oversight must have unfettered access to facilities and staff. Without timely and reliable access to department records, information, and facilities, oversight practitioners and volunteers cannot make decisions that meaningfully address areas of concern.
- Independence
- Clearly Defined and Adequate Jurisdiction and Authority
- Unfettered Access to Records and Facilities
- Access to Law Enforcement Executives and Internal Affairs Staff
- Full Cooperation
- Sustained Stakeholder Support
- Adequate Funding and Operational Resources
- Public Reporting and Transparency
- Policy and Patterns in Practice Analysis
- Community Outreach
- Community Involvement
- Confidentiality, Anonymity, and Protection from Retaliation
- Procedural Justice and Legitimacy