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(Des Moines, IA) -- The City of Des Moines is set to spend $250,000 to hire a consultant to review police department protocol.
"We are going to be assessing Des Moines police and their policies, procedures, training, and culture," says Des Moines Councilmember Connie Boesen. "I think that this is a positive step to say how can we improve outcomes for not only our citizens, but also for the people that are serving in our police department."
21CP Solutions works with cities nationwide to build trust between the community and police by improving police accountability. Boesen says the company will work with DMPD to strengthen public safety and community well-being.
Des Moines Councilmember Indira Sheumaker says accusations against DMPD regarding the use of excessive force and racial profiling influenced the city's decision to seek consulting.
"This is the result of the request for a third-party investigation into the Des Moines police. It is not an investigation into any specific incidents, but like Councilmember Boesen said, into culture, protocol, procedures, policy, and training of the Des Moines Police Department," says Sheumaker. "I know that our focus is on strengthening public safety for people who are interacting with police. I'm really hoping we get some good recommendations along those lines."
DMPD is also looking to obtain national accreditation.