"The Antioch City Council last week rejected several proposed changes to the city's Police Oversight Commission, including background and social media checks for commissioners. Pushback and concerns were centered on three recommendations: background checks and fingerprinting, which include information from social media reviews during the selection process for new applicants to become a commissioner; the City Council's authority over a temporary pause on meetings; and allowing officers from law enforcement agencies to serve on the commission."
"Councilmember Donald Freitas opposed background checks and fingerprinting, adding it was not appropriate for the commission. He said the commission was held to a different standard compared to other boards and commissions in the city, adding there should be consistent standards for all. I don't think it's appropriate in this commission. I don't think it's appropriate in any commission, said Freitas, adding that the process can bring in prejudice and bias."
Antioch City Council rejected proposed changes to the Police Oversight Commission that included background and social media checks, fingerprinting, council authority to temporarily pause meetings, and allowing law-enforcement officers to serve. Pushback focused on social media review during applicant selection, potential inconsistency with other boards, and conflict-of-interest concerns if current or former officers or their spouses served. Councilmember Donald Freitas opposed background checks and fingerprinting, citing potential prejudice and the need for consistent standards. Commissioner Susan Kennedy warned that rigorous screening could signal exclusion and referenced concerns about cancel culture. The May appointment of Joseph Mitchell triggered resident objections over alleged discriminatory posts; Mitchell described himself as a moderate conservative.
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