Does the NYPD Need an Inspector General?

Councilmembers Brad Lander, D-Park Slope, and Jumaane Williams, D-Brooklyn, introduced legislation on Wednesday to create an Inspector General position to oversee the goings-on of the NYPD.

“Every government agency needs oversight, especially those that impact public safety, security, and civil liberties,” Lander said. “New Yorkers deserve to know their police department is doing everything it should to keep them safe, to spend their tax dollars effectively, and to protect their civil liberties.”

The job of Inspector General—to be appointed by the mayor—would consist of reviewing police policies, conducting investigations and making recommendations on improving the effectiveness of the NYPD. The IG would also be granted subpoena power.

The bill arrives amid a firestorm of controversy over the department's practice of , as well as Lander's assertion that police spend a disproportionate amount of time

Donna Lieberman, executive director of the New York Civil Liberties Union, said the department needs an IG to "shine a light on the policies coming out of One Police Plaza."

"The NYPD’s culture of misconduct needs real reform, she said. “Hardly a day goes by without another story of NYPD abuse hitting the news and undermining the ability of the community to trust the police department."

What do you think? Does the NYPD need more oversight? Tell us your thoughts in the comments.