Here’s how to sign up to volunteer for Modesto police review board
What might you bring to Modesto’s soon-to-be-created Community Police Review Board?
Are you fired up at the seemingly endless episodes of police brutality, including the fatal shooting of Trevor Seever in Modesto? Or would you bring a calming presence borne of sympathy for officers working an impossibly difficult job?
Or are you somewhere in between?
It’s intriguing to imagine the conversations that will take place when the city-convened police review board comes together. Charting a path for Modesto police — with help from all sides — could be invigorating and empowering and intimidating, all at the same time.
A lot will depend on the composition of the group. Too much back-the-badge defensiveness would produce no meaningful change, while too much anger could dampen police buy-in.
What this police review board needs is a good cross-section of all types and opinions. Contributions from every sector represent our best hope for success.
Two weeks ago, City Hall had received only 15 applications for the nine review board seats. That didn’t seem like many for something so important.
Perhaps spurred by near-constant TV news reports on murder charges brought against the officers responsible for Tyre Nichols’ death in Memphis — or maybe people just realize the deadline is nearing — applications for the Modesto police review board now stand at 49. That’s decent, I would say.
“We anticipate more,” City Manager Joe Lopez told me in an email Monday morning. Good — keep ‘em coming. The more to choose from, the better chance that Modesto will create something special, something that builds trust and compassion and lessens outrage and resentment. Something that results in fewer needless deaths.
The board will provide a venue for people to share experiences, complaints and compliments. Members will review “critical incidents” such as officers using lethal force, and will help to hold police accountable.
The board will work closely with a yet-to-be-hired independent police auditor. Members will review police policies and suggest refinement, and serve an outreach function to the community.
Mostly, the board represents a real chance for regular people and police to better understand each other.
If you can see yourself contributing to this cause, consider applying for membership on Modesto’s Community Police Review Board at modestogov.com/2915/Application. But don’t wait — the application period closes at the end of business on Tuesday, Jan. 31.
Your voice may make the difference. Consider sharing it.
