Saturday, March 1, 1997 | 11:59 a.m.
The Use of Force Review hearings that I have participated in have been professionally conducted, investigated and coordinated. Volunteer citizens outnumber officers four to three in voting on any convened panel. As a member of this board, I have had access to all files regarding any investigation, including autopsy photographs and witness reports.
Sen. Joe Neal's testimony regarding his intent in creating a police review board suggested that such a board would be involved in the hiring, discipline and training of police officers. If true, this would be an intrusive effort by citizens to micro-manage the operations of a police department.
Echoing the words of Mr. Aitchison's testimony, I believe that the Legislature should consider legislation regarding review boards only after finding proof that Nevada police departments are not doing an adequate job of investigating police misconduct. Absent that proof, there is no reason to create a review board.
David M. Sanchez
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