2011 Annual Report Recommendations

Recommendation Status
The Department of Justice/US Attorney performs a pattern and practice audit review of the Spokane Police Department. Department of Justice has started this process with the Technical Assistance Program.
Adopt the COPS Standards and Guidelines Manual for the Internal Affairs Unit to further formalize, strengthen and enhance the SPD's investigation process. In progress; Department of Justice will review this process during their visit. Internal Affairs investigators being sent to IACP training.
Adopt a Discipline Matrix based on the Tucson, Arizona Police Department's experience and matrix as a template where possible. Internal Affairs Lieutenant will get a copy of Tucson Police Department's discipline matrix and review for possible implementation.
Recruit and hire a civilian Public Information Officer. Completed; Police Department hired Monique Cotton.
Create a display of force policy to document weapons displayed by Police Officers. As incidents are documented, patterns may be identified and training opportunities may exist. Referred to Use of Force Commission; Supported by Use of Force Commission.
Create an arrest release policy for documentation when an individual is arrested and then released when probable cause ceases to exist. All contacts are currently documented in CAD including an “un-arrest.” Officers are instructed to make minimum notes in CAD and should consult a supervisor when unsure of when to write a formal report.
Re-establish a property crimes unit in Spokane. Implemented/Completed; Police Department is filling positions as staffing allows
Provide for a more thorough investigation process for victims of minor assaults. Police Department only has resources to follow-up on felony assaults; even then resources are limited and based on factors like seriousness, case load, solvability, etc.
Revise the SPD's use of sick leave policy to address abuse of leave. Pending; Police Department will work with City of Spokane Human Resources and City Legal to explore this.
Further restrict the use of in car computers while driving. Pending; Police Department requests proposal or sample policies for review.
Provide Officers with body video cameras. Body cameras are an “independent witness” that may improve Officer safety and have potential evidentiary value in addressing complaints. TASER model chosen; Police Department is waiting for funding from Spokane City Council.
Local media outlets create a Spokane Media Ombuds position to ensure accurate coverage and address complaints that involve the local media. N/A
The SPD be re-certified with the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement (CALEA). The SPD was previously certified but allowed their certification to lapse. Police Department has started WASPC accreditation and anticipates being certified in 2013.

2011 Recommendations

Recommendation Status
That the 3 digit numbers assigned to patrol vehicles and currently located on the windshields and rear windows of the vehicles also be placed on the front and rear bumpers of all patrol vehicles in a conspicuous location, in a 4" to 6" reflective material, to assist in identifying personnel when necessary. Complete; assigned numbers are now visible on front and rear bumpers of all patrol vehicles.

Contact Information

Office of Police Ombuds
1st Floor, City Hall
808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd.
Spokane, WA 99201
Phone: 509.625.6742
Fax: 509.625.6748
Regular Office Hours: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Monday through Friday
opo@spokanecity.org

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Police Ombuds

Luvimae Omana
Deputy Ombuds

Christina Coty
Executive Assistant

Tim Szambelan
Police Ombuds Attorney