Police Task Force releases first recommendation

The Police Accountability Task Force was charged by the Mayor to lay the foundation for rebuilding trust between the police and communities they serve by facing hard truths and creating a blueprint for transparency, respectful engagement, accountability and change.

The Task Force, chaired by Lori E. Lightfoot, a partner at Mayer Brown, is being supported by Civic Consulting Alliance. While recommendations are not due until March 31, the Task Force released its first recommendation earlier this month: A policy for timely release of video, audio and specific police reports related to police-involved shootings and other serious incidents. The policy lays out, for the first time, specifically which materials are to be released, how they are to be released, and a time frame --- within 60 days, with the possibility of one 30-day extension if requested in writing. While other cities may release similar evidence sooner, none has a specific, written policy like the Task Force has recommended.

"We believe this policy balances the public's right to know with the ability of prosecutors and disciplinary authorities to conduct thorough investigations," said Lightfoot, adding, "The Task Force believes that most cases will not need the entire 60 days. We also recommend that the City re-evaluate this policy a year out to determine whether the window can be shortened."

The Task Force will also make recommendations in the areas of De-escalation Practices, Community & Police Relations, Early Intervention & Personnel, and Legal Oversight & Accountability.