OPA wants to see more transparence between the Grand Rapids Police and the community. | Canva
OPA wants to see more transparence between the Grand Rapids Police and the community. | Canva
The Office of Oversight and Public Accountability (OPA) in the city of Grand Rapids has a vision for the future of policing that it hopes will benefit the community and those who have taken an oath to protect and serve.
“While creating this plan, we focused on elevating residents' voices, pursing equitable outcomes and reimagining policing in Grand Rapids," Brandon Davis, OPA director, told city leadership, according to the City of Grand Rapids website.
With the help of past studies, city staff and other community members, OPA said it has a strategic plan that prioritizes transparency, responsibility, unity, equity and justice, which the office calls "T.R.U.E. Justice."
“We recognize that the goal laid out in this statement is not an easy task or a simple fix,” Davis said during a City Commission’s Committee meeting. “It is reflective of our values and exemplifies an ideal state of being.”
OPA plans to create equity within public safety operations by getting precise data on how current policing practices impact different communities based on race, gender and location. Embracing training opportunities to encourage de-escalation is also an important aspect of their plan.
All policing cases involving lethal force must be reviewed and reported to OPA, and civilian oversight will also be essential to address the community's needs for accountability and transparency.
“I am supportive of any changes that help increase accountability and transparency and help make Grand Rapids a place where all people feel safe and are safe at all times,” Davis said during the meeting, according to the city's website.
OPA will also investigate any abuse of power within city operations, including fraud, corruption and waste. OPA is currently working to finalize its strategic plans and create procedures to move its mission forward.
The independent comprehensive status report on Grand Rapids Police Department studies and recommendations shows there have been 106 recommendations and studies pertaining to the city and the Grand Rapids Police Department, and only 26% of the recommendations or actions were actually completed or implemented in the past, while 20% received nominal or no action, according to the City of Grand Rapids website.
“Before moving forward, we must be accountable for the recommendations and commitments of the past," Davis said, according to the city's website. "This comprehensive report is an important step in accomplishing that goal.”
Public safety and community leadership will learn more about OPA's role and focus in November.
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