About the OIG

 

Mission of the Office of the Inspector General

The Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is an independent civilian oversight agency that monitors and audits the Oakland Police Department’s (OPD’s) policies, practices and procedures. Our mission is to ensure accountability, enhance community trust, and increase transparency via fair and thorough assessments of OPD’s compliance with the law and departmental policies.

Vision & Guiding Principles

Our vision is to build an effective, independent, and civilian operated, police oversight body that maintains a culture of impartiality, transparency, and accountability in its work.

We operate under a clear set of principles. These principles guide every action, decision, and report we produce. The OIG upholds the professional standards set forth by the Association of the Inspectors General (AIG), and adheres to the National Association for Civilian Oversight of Law Enforcement (NACOLE) Code of Ethics. 

The OIG practices these principles and standards in the following way:

• Professional Conduct: The OIG is committed to being honest, impartial, and accountable. We also recognize that it takes courage to do the right thing, even during difficult circumstances.
• Communication & Transparency: The OIG believes trust is built through transparency and accessibility. 
• Ethical Values: Ethics and integrity are paramount for oversight practitioners. We review and present information objectively and independently without outside pressure.

Authority and Jurisdiction

in 2020, Measure S1 was passed to strengthen the City of Oakland's police reform efforts. Measure S1 also established the Office of the Inspector General (OIG), tasking us with monitoring the Oakland Police Department’s compliance with policies, procedures, and laws, particularly those stemming from the Negotiated Settlement Agreement (NSA). Per the Oakland City Charter, we also the authority to review the Community Police Review Agency's investigative processes. Ultimately, our aim is to enhance the effectiveness of the Oakland Police Department and Community Police Review Agency, offering recommendations to stakeholders for consideration and implementation.

Even though we are not an enforcement body or action holder for these recommendations, we can provide follow-ups to verify implementation.

Organizational Chart

We have worked with the City Administration to identify the appropriate level of staffing to serve Oaklanders. In 2023, we began recruiting for permanent staff. If the budget allows, we are dedicated to filling all positions with full-time permanent staff members to support the work and stabilize the office.

Governing Documents

Memberships