OFFICE OF INDEPENDENT REVIEW

2020 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• Re-established Office of Independent Review (OIR) following years of dormancy, including the hiring of an investigations manager to assist in oversight of County justice-related agencies. • Initiated four investigations: (1) the use of force by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) (2) use of force by the Orange County Probation Department; (3) the treatment of evidence by OCSD, District Attorney and Public Defender; and (4) the use of psychological testing in the hiring of sworn peace officers. The OIR made significant progress regarding the force investigations, for which the OIR reviewed dozens of force-related policies; attended force-related Sheriff’s academy and in-service training; and analyzed more than 150 use-of-force incidents. • Provided advice to the District Attorney, Social Services Agency and Probation Department on critical policies, with the goal of improving County services, minimizing potential harm, and mitigating risk. • Received and reviewed hundreds of community complaints. • Met with and developed relationships with stakeholders and community groups. • Established necessary information sharing agreements with several County agencies and obtained two court orders to ease receipt and review of confidential information.

2021 GOALS

• Complete and publish reports regarding the use of force by the OCSD and Probation departments; complete investigations regarding the treatment of evidence by relevant departments and the use of psychological testing in the hiring of sworn officers. • Investigate and review systemic issues and incidents identified through risk assessments and other factors. • Develop and establish a program of volunteer, independent jail monitors to assist the OIR in collecting information to better assess conditions and potential risks. • Devise and recommend mechanisms to provide positive recognition and incentives to County employees who perform duties in an exemplary fashion.