In November 2005, voters approved a Charter Amendment establishing the creation of an independent auditor to oversee complaint investigations concerning improper police conduct. In December 2006, the City Council passed an ordinance enabling a Civilian Review Board and defined the responsibilities of a police auditor. The ordinance became effective on January 12, 2007.

The auditor's office receives complaints, conducts preliminary investigations, classifies cases, actively monitors internal investigations, and provides recommendations concerning the adjudication of complaints. The auditor also supports the Civilian Review Board in its mission to provide a public face to this oversight model. The role of the Civilian Review Board is to report on the fairness and diligence of the investigative process. The common goal of these two entities is twofold: to oversee the conduct of the police department and to increase public confidence that the rights of citizen under police jurisdiction will be protected.

The auditor has been with the City of Eugene for one year. After the ordinance was enacted, the protocols were developed, policy was modified and the contract with the Police Employees Association was bargained. Come hear Cristina Beamud talk about the successes and challenges of her first year in Eugene as our new police auditor.

Our first question will be asked by Maria Paladino, Executive Director of Sexual Assault Support Services.