COLUMBUS – Columbus City Council Monday night approved a sweeping package of law enforcement reform measures before adjourning for its annual August recess including a ballot issue to create an independent civilian police review board and an independent investigatory body.
The four-part legislative package includes placing a measure on the November ballot for a Civilian Review Board and a Department of the Inspector General.
Council launched a Reimagine Safety initiative after the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis led to nationwide protests and criticism of the response by Columbus police.
One ordinance places an issue on the ballot to create a Civilian Police Review Board with subpoena power and a professionally staffed investigative unit outside of the Division of Police to review citizen complaints
Additional legislation limits no-knock raids to halt entry into a home or business or residence without the officer first knocking or identifying themselves as a police officer and adds hate group affiliations to background checks for police officers.
A fourth ordinance bans the purchase and use of certain military-grade equipment, such as tanks, grenade launchers and riot batons, by police.
Council’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Sept. 14.