The Arlington County Board established the Community Oversight Board (COB) and the Independent Policing Auditor (IPA) in July 2021 as a measure to enhance transparency, accountability, and trust in the Arlington County Police Department (ACPD). The COB and IPA are tasked with independently reviewing and addressing public grievances against the police department and have the power to investigate these complaints and recommend actions. Complaints and commendations pertaining to law enforcement officers can be submitted online, in-person, by phone, or by email, and can be submitted anonymously.
Complaints are investigated jointly by the Independent Policing Auditor and ACPD's Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR). Both the IPA and OPR produce separate investigative reports to be reviewed by the COB. The COB then publishes a public report assessing the findings and thoroughness of the investigation and can provide disciplinary or police recommendations.
Background Materials:
Police Practices Group
In 2019, the County Manager launched a 15 member Police Practices Group (PPG) in July 2020. The PPG divided into four subcommittees to address key issues of importance, one of which was a subcommittee charged with evaluating what type of civilian oversight of its police department Arlington County should implement. The Civilian Review Board (CRB) subcommittee focused on reviewing the different models of civilian oversight available as well as what authority and responsibilities the recommended civilian oversight body should possess.
PPG Products related to Civilian Review Board