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Boulder Police Department faces scrutiny over domestic violence protocols

October 14, 2024 | Boulder, Boulder County, Colorado


This article was created by AI summarizing key points discussed. AI makes mistakes, so for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Please report any errors so we can fix them. Report an error »

Boulder Police Department faces scrutiny over domestic violence protocols
In a recent Boulder Police Department (BPD) meeting, a panel reviewed multiple allegations against officers, focusing on compliance with departmental general orders, particularly those related to domestic violence investigations and interactions with the public.

The panel examined several allegations against Officer 1, primarily concerning failures in conducting domestic violence investigations as mandated by General Order 313. The first allegation, regarding a failure to conduct a domestic violence investigation, was ultimately sustained with a recommendation for verbal counseling. However, a second allegation about not providing a victim rights pamphlet was found not sustained. The panel and department agreed on a sustained finding for a third allegation related to non-compliance with lethality assessment protocols.

Concerns were raised about inconsistencies between the general orders and the training provided to officers. The panel recommended a review of General Order 313 to clarify mandated actions during domestic violence incidents. BPD Chief of Police indicated that this review would occur during the department's CALIA accreditation process and that feedback would be shared with the victim services unit for potential updates to their pamphlet.

The panel also addressed issues with the Axon record management system, noting its inadequacies in documenting investigative steps and maintaining report changes. The Chief acknowledged these concerns and stated that improvements would be pursued in collaboration with Axon.

In another case involving BPD officers at a University of Colorado football game, the panel reviewed allegations against Sergeant 1 and Officer 1 regarding compliance with values and use of force. The panel found both officers' actions to be unfounded concerning allegations of bias-based policing and failure to de-escalate. However, they recommended verbal counseling for an allegation against Officer 2 regarding retrieving a man's ID without justification.

The panel emphasized the need for clearer guidelines regarding police authority when BPD officers work alongside University of Colorado Police Department (CUPD) personnel, suggesting that existing conflicts could lead to confusion in future interactions.

Additional cases reviewed included allegations against Detective 1 related to a sexual misconduct investigation, which were largely found to be unfounded. The panel also examined a traffic stop initiated by Officer 1, where the findings were mixed, with some allegations sustained and others unfounded.

Overall, the meeting highlighted ongoing concerns about training, procedural compliance, and the need for clearer communication within the department, particularly in high-stakes situations involving domestic violence and public interactions. The Chief of Police committed to addressing these issues proactively to enhance the department's operational effectiveness and community trust.

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Scribe from Workplace AI
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