Denver Police Chief Proposes Education-Based Discipline Amid Criticism
DENVER — In a recent interview with Denver7, Denver Police Chief Ron Thomas unveiled a new proposal aimed at reforming how officers are disciplined for minor policy violations. The initiative suggests replacing traditional reprimands with "education-based development" (EBD), wherein officers would undergo specific training to better understand departmental and community expectations.
Thomas explained that this approach, modeled after a policy utilized by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, focuses on developing officers’ understanding of their duties rather than simply punishing them for infractions. He emphasized the need for timely resolutions, noting that current disciplinary processes can take months, thus undermining public trust.
Despite Thomas’s push for EBD, the proposal has faced backlash from community watchdogs and the Denver Citizen Oversight Board, which claim it could diminish accountability. Critics argue that the lack of significant community input during the policy’s formulation may further alienate residents. Julia Richmond, chair of the Oversight Board, stated that previous procedural changes included robust community engagement, a standard that appears lacking in this instance.
Moreover, Lisabeth Pérez Castle, Denver’s independent monitor, expressed concerns that EBD might evade responsibility for officers’ actions. Thomas refuted these claims, asserting that he has engaged with the community and received substantial support for the initiative.
The proposal, if approved, aims to enhance officer training in various areas including emotional intelligence and procedural justice. However, its implementation remains contingent on further discussions with city officials and community stakeholders. Public feedback is being solicited until August 27, as the department seeks to refine the initiative while ensuring accountable policing.
