The state agency responsible for training and licensing law enforcement members in Oregon has work to do to improve oversight, according to an audit conducted by the secretary of state’s office.
The Department of Public Safety Standards and Training teaches, certifies and regulates all law enforcement in the state including city, county, state and tribal police officers and corrections officers. The audit was prompted by local and national calls for police reform and improved accountability in the wake of George Floyd’s murder by Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin in May 2020.
The audit found hurdles to DPSST detecting and addressing officers who should be decertified. It also found staffing and technology constraints impede the agency’s ability to hold officers accountable, and that on-the-job training varies by agency and isn’t adequately regulated across the state.
“Today’s report clearly outlines key steps that DPSST and law enforcement partners must take to improve performance and build public trust,” Secretary of State Shemia Fagan said in a statement.
DPSST’s police policy committee and board discussions are livestreamed, and the agency posts certification decisions online, along with investigation details. But the state agency’s certification decisions are secondary to local disciplinary decisions, which are often shrouded in secrecy. Officer terminations typically trigger certification reviews, meaning in most cases, DPSST doesn’t become involved in officer...
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