Berkeley Voters Approve New Police Accountability Board

November 6, 2020

(Berkeley, CA) – Berkeley Mayor Jesse Arreguin declared a commanding victory on Measure II, a local ballot measure that will create an independent Police Accountability Board.

“I am thankful for the voters of Berkeley for approving a new Police Accountability Board to replace our antiquated Police Review Commission, giving this Board the authority and resources to thoroughly investigate misconduct allegations and review police policies to protect civil rights and liberties, and address racial and other disparities” said Mayor Arreguin. 

As of the latest update from the Alameda County Registrar of voters on November 5th shortly before 5pm, Measure II is passing with 84.39% of the vote. An estimated 34% of ballots remain uncounted, but based on the voting trends, it is statistically impossible for the outcome to change. 

This Charter Amendment will replace the current Police Review Commission with a new Police Accountability Board. It’s purpose is to promote public trust through independent, objective, civilian oversight of the Berkeley Police Department, provide community participation in setting and reviewing Police Department policies, practices, and procedures, and to provide a means for prompt, impartial and fair investigation of complaints brought by members of the public against sworn employees of the Berkeley Police Department.

The proposal also establishes the Director of Police Accountability, who will be tasked with investigating complaints filed against sworn employees of the Berkeley Police Department, to reach an independent finding as to the facts and recommend corrective action where warranted.

Measure II was the culmination of years of an unprecedented collaborative process between the Berkeley Police, Police Review Commission, City Council, and community stakeholders such as the NAACP. In recent months, police accountability and social justice has moved to the forefront of national issues in light of the murder of George Floyd and the Black Lives Matter movement.