Seattle’s Police Accountability System
History
Seattle started using civilian oversight of its police department in 1992. The City created a civilian department to review internal police investigations. In 2002, the City made this system stronger by expanding it into three parts. The new system included the civilian-led Office of Police Accountability (OPA), an OPA Auditor, and a three-member OPA Review Board. Together, these groups worked to make police oversight more open and responsible.
Current System
On June 1, 2017, Seattle City Council passed Ordinance 125315 to improve the city’s police accountability system. This new law created a three‑part oversight structure. It kept the existing Office of Police Accountability (OPA), added a new Office of Inspector General for Public Safety (OIG), and the Community Police Commission (CPC). Together, these three organizations work to build public trust in the Seattle Police Department by promoting accountability and making sure policies and constitutional laws are followed.
The infographic above [AD1] is called “Accountability Partners” because it shows how the police accountability system is organized. At the top, there are three boxes: OPA, which “investigates allegations of employee misconduct”; CPC, which “provides community input on policing and police reform”; and OIG, which “conducts systemic and OPA audits and reviews.” Along the bottom, there is a large box labeled SPD with the description “supports and delivers public safety services.”
Police Accountability Legislation
- Police Accountability Ordinance 125315 (2017)
- Companion Resolution to Police Accountability Ordinance 125315 (2017)
View additional information on the Guiding Documents page.