KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — A board of Kalamazoo citizens is helping in the process of selecting an independent investigator who will review the actions of the public safety department following recent protests.
During a virtual meeting last evening the Citizens Public Safety Review and Appeal Board met with Kalamazoo’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Director Dorla Bonner who explained the importance of the public’s input when hiring an investigator.
“We want to be true to our word, to the community that we take this seriously, and that we want to find out and ensure that our public safety acted appropriately,” Bonner explained to the board.
The independent investigator will review the city’s response to the protests and civil unrest that occurred between May 30th and June 2nd, including the use force and tear gas during the incidents.
Specifically, according to an earlier written statement, “The outside investigator will review if Public Safety’s procedures were followed, if existing procedures are appropriate, and if there are recommendations for changes. The city will also examine other existing KDPS procedures through the viewpoint of equity.”
“We really want to get this done sooner than later while people’s memories are strong because part of the investigation will be interviews with folks that were participating in the protest,” Bonner said.
The board will soon begin conducting interviews for potential investigators and then go from there.
Kalamazoo city officials have also created a website as a one-stop shop on information regarding KDPS’ policies and procedures, recruiting and training methods for new officers and other frequently asked questions. A link to the website can be found here.
