FRESNO (KMJ) — The latest effort to improve accountability, trust, and promote higher standards within Fresno Police has been unveiled by the City of Fresno.
The Citizens’ Public Safety Advisory Board, revealed to the public Wednesday morning, will be tasked with advising the city’s Office of Independent Review and help improve community policing. The nine member team will also be reviewing all legally available information regarding Fresno PD policies, practices, and procedures.
“Most importantly, I want this group to work with the Office of Independent Review to conduct reviews of major incidents,” explains Mayor Lee Brand.
He says the move is to help rebuild trust between Fresno’s citizens and its police department.
“Members of the Citizens’ Public Safety Advisory Board must be at least 18 years old, must live in the City of Fresno, and will be registered voters. They will serve a four year term and attend regular meetings,” adds Mayor Brand.
“They will also be required to participate in regular police training courses, take part in ride-alongs with police officers to get hands on experience.”
The board will also be tasked with creating quarterly reports for both Fresno City Council and the public.
Members include: Debbie Hunsaker, a business owner who will act as president of the board, Pastor Jim Parks, attorney Amy Guerra, retired bank executive Vernon Crowder, business consultant Avis Braggs, Fresno County Staff Analyst Ike Grewal, businesswoman Monica Diaz, and students Michael Kou Vang and Clifford Williams III.
Also presented was the new Independent Police Reviewer for the Office of Independent Review.
John Gliatta has 27 years of law enforcement experience with the FBI, as well as time served with Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.
“Feel free to come forward, and we’re going to be very receptive to that,” reveals Gliatta.
“But one thing I tell you and stress: honesty and integrity. That’s what’s we want to deal with. I know Chief Dyer, they [Fresno PD] are going to be receptive to that.”
The members of the Citizens’ Public Safety Advisory Board are volunteering their time, but the role of Independent Police Reviewer will earn John Gliatta approximately $125,000 per year.
Hear the report from KMJ’s Dominic McAndrew as it aired:
