Saratoga Springs Police Department Implements Police Reform Recommendations
The Saratoga Springs Police Department has made significant progress in implementing the recommendations made in the city’s 2021 police reform plan, according to an independent audit.
Progress Made
The audit found that more than half of the recommendations have been implemented, with most of the remaining recommendations either in the process of being put in place or needing clarification.
Additional Recommendations
The audit also made its own series of recommendations for how the department should move forward, including:
- Annual training programs for each role in the department
- Creating a separate department to handle responses to homelessness and mental health crises
Background
The city was required to create a police reform plan by former Governor Andrew Cuomo after an investigation found past city leaders violated the rights of civil rights protestors in 2020. The New York Attorney General’s Office made its own recommendations after conducting their investigation.
Conclusion
The Saratoga Springs Police Department’s progress in implementing the police reform recommendations is a positive step towards improving community relations and ensuring the department is operating in a fair and equitable manner. The additional recommendations made by the audit provide a roadmap for the department to continue improving and addressing the needs of the community.
FAQs
Q: What was the purpose of the police reform plan?
A: The police reform plan was created in response to an investigation that found past city leaders violated the rights of civil rights protestors in 2020.
Q: What were the main findings of the audit?
A: The audit found that more than half of the recommendations have been implemented, with most of the remaining recommendations either in the process of being put in place or needing clarification.
Q: What are the additional recommendations made by the audit?
A: The audit recommended annual training programs for each role in the department and creating a separate department to handle responses to homelessness and mental health crises.
Q: What is the next step for the Saratoga Springs Police Department?
A: The department will continue to implement the remaining recommendations and work towards improving community relations and ensuring fair and equitable policing practices.
