As the independent oversight arm for the Petaluma Police Department, the IPAP ensures all citizen complaints and internal affairs investigations are thorough, objective, and fair. We also review investigations of officer-involved shootings to ensure they are just and complete. With a focus on improvement, we provide evaluations and recommendations for police policies, procedures, and training.  We also facilitate mediation using restorative justice practices to build trust and understanding between the police and the community.

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Public Safety Advisory Group (PSAG):

The City of Petaluma is forming a Public Safety Advisory Group (PSAG) made up of community members to build strong relationships between the police department and the community. The

IPAP will play a key role in assisting the city with the planning and implementation of the PSAG. We will also support the PSAG and community members by offering relevant training and addressing concerns related to police-community relations, policies, and practices. We also produce informative annual reports and audits for the PSAG, including data and information on topics of interest to the group.

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Community Input:

At the Office of the Independent Police Auditor, we value community feedback on police policies and practices. We review and consider all input received from the community, and work with the City and Police Department to develop and implement responses to this feedback. Your input is important to us and will be included in our reporting and discussions.

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Public Reporting:

Twice a year, the IPA will share a written report with the City Manager and City Council that provides a statistical breakdown of complaints and investigations, as well as any trends that are developing. The report will include information on the initial allegation(s), the findings, and the recommendations made to the Chief of Police. The IPAP will also meet twice a year with the City Council, City Manager, and Police Chief to discuss the report and any trends.

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How to connect with us:

We have a team of staff helping the Office of the Independent Police Auditor respond to community inquiries and perform the duties of the IPAP.  Please reach out to us at (707) 927-0727 or at policeauditor@cityofpetaluma.org.