The fifth annual independent audit of the Santa Cruz Police Department noted successes in improving its internal investigation systems, but added that there is still room for improvement on the accountability side. Police leaders will review the recommendations and may bring them to the city’s public safety committee for input on which to prioritize.
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In wake of SCPD cyclist arrest, speakers voice frustrations, push for public safety reforms in community forum
Local activists, social justice organizations and about 30 community members gathered Sunday in front of Santa Cruz City Hall to connect and begin discussing ways to reimagine public safety in the city in response to community complaints regarding the use of excessive force by Santa Cruz police officers in their arrest of a Black cyclist earlier this month.
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Bodycam footage shows ‘no clear violations of the law’ in Westside cyclist arrest, SCPD chief says
Santa Cruz Police Chief Bernie Escalante said an initial review of body camera footage found no policy violations during the arrest of a cyclist on the city’s Westside last week. Still, he said the department has launched an investigation into the incident, which prompted excessive force complaints from witnesses.
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Santa Cruz police to review excessive force complaint after multiple officers arrest Westside cyclist
Witnesses say Santa Cruz police officers used excessive force Wednesday morning when arresting a Black man on his bike. Deputy Chief Jon Bush said the department is investigating a community complaint it received about the incident.