Newly Introduced Bill Aims To Form Civilian Police Advisory Board

SILVER SPRING, MD — Legislation that seeks to improve the public's trust in law enforcement has been introduced in the Montgomery County Council.

Sponsored by at-large member Hans Riemer, the bill would establish the county's first civilian police review commission. The 13-member board would develop best practices on policing matters and relay them to the council for review. The goal is to improve the council's oversight of the police department and encourage community engagement with law enforcement.

Bill 14-19, introduced by Riemer on Tuesday, comes on the heels of a police transparency bill signing, and amid a police investigation into a video that purportedly shows a white officer using a racial slur while talking to a group of black men.

"I know that we have an excellent police department, full of conscientious and highly professional public servants," Riemer said. "But we are not immune from the challenges that communities are facing all over the country."

That's why Riemer thinks the county needs a civilian policing advisory board.

The Policing Advisory Commission, as it's called, would allow appointed residents to help craft certain policies for the police department and strengthen the council's oversight role to prevent problems from occurring down the road. Of the 13 members, nine would be appointed by the council. The remaining four members would be appointed by the county executive.

In addition, a representative from the police department and the Fraternal Order of Police will serve as ex-officio members.

"The creation of a Policing Advisory Commission will provide an opportunity for community participation in the review of police department policies and practices," council member Will Jawando, one of the bill's co-sponsors, said. "This input is a critical component of community-based policing and will help create more transparency and trust between the police and the residents they serve.

"The ability to analyze data, consider best practices from other jurisdictions, make recommendations and monitor progress creates the kind of accountability that will ensure good government for the residents of Montgomery County."

According to the bill, the Policing Advisory Commission would be responsible for producing a report each year by July 1 that explains its functions, activities, accomplishments, plans, and objectives.