Philly councilman wants quicker action on police complaints

A Philadelphia City Councilman wants the group overseeing complaints against the police to move a little faster.

Councilman Curtis Jones says the Police Advisory Commission sometimes takes too long to review complaints.

 

“I want justice to be served as swiftly as possible,” Jones said. “I don’t know if there is a cookie-cutter time but I do know people are questioning how long it takes to process that complaint, both officers who are accused and people who are victims.”

Jones said it’s unacceptable that some cases are still open after a year.

Mayor Michael Nutter defends the commission’s work.

“I’d be glad to talk to the Police Advisory Commission, but as best as I can tell, they are up and operating and doing their job,” Nutter said. “I haven’t heard any complaints from citizens or the PAC.”

Jones has yet to put forth a bill mandating changes at the commission. He said he intends to do so.

One strategy may be trying to change Philadelphia’s charter to make the commission permanent. Right now it exists by virtue of an executive order.