Firing of Berkeley's top police watchdog lands another blow to independent oversight, officials say

""The Berkeley City Council is firmly committed to police accountability, and we recognize how deeply these issues matter to our community. The Office of the Director of Police Accountability plays a critical role, and we remain focused on fully supporting the office and the Police Accountability Board so that both entities can carry out their responsibilities effectively, Ishii's statement read. The City is committed to continuity of operations and is putting in place measures to make sure this important work goes on seamlessly.""

""Hired in 2022 following a nationwide search, Aguilar was responsible for overseeing investigations into complaints of police misconduct, as well as acting as secretary of the Police Accountability Board, a nine-member civilian body charged with advising the City Council on policies, practices and procedures. The board's work has been plagued by a strained relationship with other city departments and council leadership as attempts to formalize board regulations have stalled and disagreements over document access and investigation results have emerged.""

Berkeley City Council voted in closed session to remove Hansel Aguilar as Director of the Office of Police Accountability, with eight councilmembers in favor and one absent. The mayor emphasized a commitment to police accountability and continuity of operations while pledging support for the office and the Police Accountability Board. Aguilar, hired in 2022 after a nationwide search, oversaw misconduct investigations and served as board secretary. The Police Accountability Board has experienced strained relations with city departments and council leadership, stalled rule formalization, and disputes over document access and investigation results, with councilmembers urging focus on surveillance and drone policies.

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