City of Spokane Office of Police Ombudsman

On October 6, 2008 the Spokane City Council officially adopted legislation to establish the Office of Police Ombudsman. This Office was established to provide independent civilian oversight for misconduct complaints involving members of the Spokane Police Department. The Ombudsman’s Office is independent from all other City departments and reports directly to the Mayor and City Council. In addition to providing civilian oversight, the Office of Police Ombudsman may recommend policies and procedures for review and review and recommend changes in departmental policies to improve the quality of police investigations and practices.

The Office of Police Ombudsman exists to promote public confidence in the professionalism and accountability of the members of the Spokane Police Department by providing independent review of police actions, thoughtful policy recommendations and ongoing community outreach.