ABSTRACT
Civilian oversight, as developed since the early 1970s, provides a forum for communities to weigh in to ensure that police policies and practices are in keeping with community standards and expectations. The overarching goal of independent oversight of the misconduct complaint process is to ensure high quality investigations that lead to fair findings and disciplinary decisions. Chapter 9 includes a brief overview of oversight in the U.S. and discusses models and functions, as well as components contributing to successful oversight. Civilian oversight programs with ample authority and resources can contribute to the accountability, transparency, and legitimacy of law enforcement. Oversight works to ensure that the priorities and practices of law enforcement agencies are in keeping with community values and can support public confidence and legitimacy in policing. The role of the National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (NACOLE) in establishing standards and training for oversight practitioners is presented.
