Tampa council considers end of Citizen’s Review Board

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Tampa city council members are considering the end to community oversight of the police department. They're citing a new law to repeal the Citizen's Review Board.

The Citizen's Review Board is a panel of 11 volunteers that look at disciplinary cases and other issues that involve the police.

Earlier in the year, Governor Ron DeSantis signed a law limiting this type of civilian investigation.

The board was formed almost 10 years ago and has caused concerns among community members.

In 2021, civil rights groups questioned the process for appointing board members.

At the time, Yvette Lewis president of the NAACP said, "It is time for accountability with Tampa Police Department. It is time for transparency with the Tampa Police Department. It is time to rebuild the trust within the citizens."

In response to criticism, Mayor Jane Castor said, "The Tampa Police Department is a wide-open book. They want as much oversight, they want the community to be involved, and they have invited everyone in."

City council members are expected to vote on the dissolution of the CRB during their meeting Thursday morning.