DOJ issues recommendations on Columbus Police use of force policy

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WSYX) — The Department of Justice has released a report with recommendations for changes to Columbus Police Department policies, procedures and training on use of force and citizen engagement.

The city administration asked the federal government for assistance in reviewing its police forces in 2021.

In 2023, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of Community-Oriented Policing Services (COPS) released a “roadmap to implementation” that anticipated the 2024 use-of-force policy report.

That report, released last week, does not include a review of officer-involved shootings because they are investigated independently by the Ohio Bureau of Criminal Investigations.

The Columbus Police Department “has a capable workforce that cares about its community. It appears that it has historically operated in a culture that has been extremely resistant to change, despite efforts by many to advocate for modernization of systems, technology and operational practices,” the report said.

Consultants from Jensen Hughes made 45 recommendations calling for more training and changes in how CPD oversees use of force. A recurring theme in the report is the need for more comprehensive data collection, analysis and reporting to ensure accountability.

“Investing in technologies that facilitate data collection, analysis and reporting, and evaluating their effectiveness, underscores an agency’s commitment to the public,” said Hugh T. Clements Jr., director of the COPS Office. “When an agency voluntarily requires such an assessment and is interested in making improvements, everyone benefits.”

The report also calls for increased cooperation with the Office of the Inspector General.

The full report can be found here.