Reforming police practice in the City of Brotherly Love, the Citizens Police Oversight Commission (CPOC) has made public its 2024 Annual Report, a document underscoring the strides taken towards a policing system that's more transparent, accountable, and in tune with the community it serves in Philadelphia. In the face of what's described as a "challenging national environment" for watchdog bodies like itself, CPOC, led since May 2024 by Executive Director Tonya McClary, Esq., has managed to beef up its watchdog role and enhance community relations and systemic reforms, as reported by the City of Philadelphia.
Appointed against the churning backdrop of turbulent social unrest, McClary has guided CPOC through its initiatives, like erecting a Data Analytics and Accountability Insights Division, tasked with shining a light on the Philadelphia Police Department's (PPD) data practices. In a statement made by the City of Philadelphia, McClary articulated, "Even with the challenges we faced in 2024, CPOC remained resolutely committed to fostering transparency, accountability, and trust between the community and law enforcement."
The commission also expanded its auditing capabilities, including real-time assessments of complaints against police, and ramped up its policy advisement through the newly minted Auditing, Policy, and Research Division. This squad is also charged with improving how the community reports on policing. The report mentions that CPOC has started disseminating monthly reports on police misconduct complaints, raising the public's awareness of the concerns aired by residents of Philadelphia.
As shared in the city's official report, community education efforts have flourished, with CPOC developing new teaching materials on policing and launching social media campaigns to inform Philadelphians of their rights. Regular collaboration with police leadership, policy reviews, and addressing concerns have defined CPOC's year, reflecting their commitment to working hand-in-hand on improvements. Echoing the value of such engagement, Interim Chair Hassan Bennett said, "As a new agency, we recognize that building trust takes time," and "We are committed to fostering a culture of transparency, accountability, and collaboration and to earning the trust of Philadelphians."
Celebrating a significant policy win, the agency has managed to have its recommendation for independent police misconduct investigations included in the city's proposals for an updated police contract. Despite such wins, the CPOC acknowledges ongoing challenges like funding and achieving complete operational independence. Displaying a firm resolve for improvement, McClary remarked, "We have made meaningful strides, but our work is far from finished," and "To truly serve the people of Philadelphia, we must continue to fight for full independence and grow the agency's capacity," according to the City of Philadelphia.
Peering into 2025, CPOC has set its sights on augmenting its workforce, advancing its data-reporting capabilities, constructing new internal divisions, and fortifying connections with community organizations to assure a chorus of diverse voices informs the commission's direction. Those interested in the full breadth of CPOC's progress – or challenges – can find their 2024 Annual Report on the commission's website.
