Independent Police Oversight Firm Concludes Review of West Linn Police Department Investigation
WEST LINN, OR -- December 16, 2020
On Monday, November 30, the City of West Linn received the final investigative report on the history and internal handling of the Fesser v. West Linn case from the OIR Group, a nationally recognized independent police oversight and review firm. City Council voted unanimously on December 7 to first release the confidential report to affected individuals as required by legal due process, followed by a second unanimous vote on December 14 to publicly release the report immediately following conclusion of the appropriate legal process.
Former Chief Terry Kruger provided a written response to the OIR Report on December 15, including reference to his July 9 letter to the City (full documents available here).
The OIR Report (full report available here) outlines in detail the history of the Fesser case, how it was handled internally, and provides recommendations on how to improve policy and process to protect against future misconduct. Investigators performed a rigorous review of documentation and interviews of involved individuals over the course of several months.
“The Report outlined deficiencies in the Police Department’s accountability structure. We truly want to get better, and these recommendations will help us do that,” Acting Chief Peter Mahuna stated. “We are committed to making West Linn a safe and welcoming place for everyone.”
City Manager Jerry Gabrielatos echoes these concerns and actions, noting, “One of my goals for 2021 will be working with City Council, the West Linn Police Oversight and Accountability Task Force, and our Police Department towards implementing the policy recommendations included in this report. I view them as an outline for how to move our City forward.”
The Mayor, City Council, and staff remain committed to a publicly transparent assessment of these matters in order to continue to rebuild community trust and ensure the highest possible level of service moving forward. Investigations by the Department of Justice remain in process. Other work currently underway includes conducting an independent Diversity, Equity and Inclusion audit; developing and implementing a City-wide Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Plan; and working towards creation of a long-term police oversight entity. More information on these action items can be found at westlinnoregon.gov/communications/diversity-equity-and-inclusion-information-hub.
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