According to the Denver Post, citizen complaints against the Denver Police Department fell 21% in 2011, but there are still concerns. Namely, citizens are up in arms about cops entering residences without warrants, and are worried about the “code of silence” that keeps cops quiet when others are suspected of misconduct.
Two annual city reports, from the Office of the Independent Monitor and the Citizen Oversight Board, remarked that although complaints were down, there were issues that needed to be addressed in order to improve police-citizen relations and to improve the integrity of the department.
Denver Police Chief Robert White says his department will address some of the issues, like discourtesy among officers, through training. He admitted that the people of Denver won’t trust the police if they don’t believe they are being treated with respect. “I think they (supervisors) are in the greatest position to make sure we are being respectful, responsive and courteous. I think you will see us doing stuff differently,” said White.
Another issue, however, and possibly much more serious, is warrantless entries. The department receives much negative attention for warrantless entries into Denver residences. “Throughout 2011, the Monitor’s Office has found it necessary to continue to intervene in some case regarding the issue of warrantless entries into private residences,” the Independent Monitor’s report said.Watch Full Movie Online Streaming Online and Download
The report recommends additional training for officers regarding warrantless entries. Chief White, however, doesn’t see it as a problem, stating that maybe the issue lies with residents not fully understanding the laws regarding law enforcement entry. He said, “We need to do a better job in educating the community on why officers are making those entries.”
Always an issue among law enforcement, and another concern brought up by the Citizen Oversight Board is the “code of silence” that exists on the DPD. In the name of loyalty and camaraderie, some officers keep their mouths shut when they know one of their own has done something wrong. The board has recommended the Department do an in depth look into the presence of such a code and do what’s necessary to remedy it.
Again, White believes this problem is being blown out of proportion.
Police and community relations are crucial in any city, but Denver has had some serious problems in recent years holding the respect of its citizens. When you are encountered by the police, whether they are serving a warrant or not, you should be able to expect professional and lawful behavior. If there is any question in your mind as to whether you will receive this kind of behavior, it seems there is a problem.
If you are accused of committing a crime and you don’t believe you are being treated fairly, contact us today. It’s the job of your attorney to help ensure your rights are protected.