The Community Public Safety Advisory Board (CPSAB) of Oklahoma City recently marked its first year of operation with an acknowledgement ceremony at City Hall. As Mayor David Holt highlighted during the event, "We remain grateful for the work of these volunteers who are willing to give their time to ensure that our public safety services meet the expectations of our residents." According to the city's press release, the CPSAB, chaired by Dianna Berry, has played a key role in fostering communication between the police and community members.
Throughout the last twelve months, the advisory board has actively reviewed the Oklahoma City Police Department's complaint investigative process, examining a total of 61 cases, which include 42 resident complaints, 17 officer-involved shootings and two in-custody deaths. They have largely agreed with the outcomes, issuing 57 letters of support and four suggesting improvements. Impressively, the CPSAB has developed a multilingual OKCPD Employee Compliment and Complaint Form, streamlining the process for residents to voice their experiences with public safety officials in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese.
CPSAB's efforts have extended beyond case reviews and policy recommendations. "The unwavering and passionate service of the CPSAB demonstrates the city’s and board members’ willingness to listen to its residents and continually improve its public safety policies for the communities it serves," CPSAB Chair Dianna Berry stated in recognition of the board's proactive community engagement. Two public info sessions were hosted in Wards 2 and 6 to share the board's mission and achievements with OKC citizens, as per the city's announcement. Additional sessions are slated for later this year in other wards.
The formation of the CPSAB is rooted in the Public Safety Partnership, an endeavor aimed at enhancing public safety for all Oklahoma City residents. The City Council received a report in March 2022 delineating several recommendations, including the inception of the board, which has since worked to not just improve public safety measures but also build essential trust and confidence between the community and its protectors.
