The first activity summary of the Orange County Office of Independent Review will be presented to the Board of Supervisors on Tuesday. OIR Executive Director Stephen Connolly was appointed in September 2008.
The OIR will also present a report on their review of complaints about security measures at the January 13, 2009 Board of Supervisors meeting. To see that report click: O00309-000839E.pdf (655.86 kb)
His activity report said that since he took the job he has established a protocol for reviewing the Orange County Sheriff's Department's disciplinary procedures.
"My role is to promote the proper level of investigation and responses to all cases by consulting with the Department from an informed and independent outside perspective," he said in his written report to the Board.
He has already reviewed close to 300 cases, ranging from "low-level discourtesy complaints to criminal misconduct resulting in discharge. They include allegations of excessive force, false reporting, obstruction of justice, domestic violence, racial profiling, improper detention, insubordination, failure to supervise, and various forms of harassment or mistreatment of inmates."
Director Connolly said, "While I have been impressed with the quality of most investigations-particularly the more serious ones-I have also had occasion to question the adequacy of the Department's investigative work in individual matters, and have been able to request further information-gathering and analysis. My opportunity to discuss potential outcomes and to make recommendations has also resulted in adjustments to the Department's initial findings and determinations. I have also worked with the Department to suggest interventions outside the discipline process (counseling, training, briefing bulletins) as warranted by the circumstances of the case, and in an effort to promote a more holistic response by the Department."
To view the full report click: O00309-000839E.pdf (655.86 kb)