Build trust in community; start police review board

As a country, today more than ever, the importance of having community oversight boards that are responsive to local concerns regarding police departments is not only necessary, but also should be led by private citizens.

I’d like to encourage Broward County to consider what has worked well in other communities as a road map toward what may be implemented here. This begins by having a Citizen Police Review Board that is chaired by a resident. Then, having an ordinance that creates a board, which specifies the types of cases that come before it.

Most importantly, to ensure that board members are considered as a resource and their input receives immediate attention, limit the number serving to no more than nine, with one-third of membership consisting of current senior police officers. This will allow for constructive reviews and decision making. Initial discussions toward this board seem to be appreciated by our county’s lawenforcement leaders, including Broward Sheriff Gregory Tony.

Previously in our county, sometimes there has been a false perception that the only time people see lawenforcement is when they get pulled over. One of the first things a new Broward County board should address is howwe, as a county, may provide more-effective community programs with first-hand discussions in neighborhoods before something turns into a serious conflict. Residents must see that police officers are taking their concerns seriously. Discussions have begun on a possible board. Nowis the time to start. Sheriff Tony has stated he is ready to begin.

Rob Kornahrens, Fort Lauderdale