Interested in police accountability? You can apply for the city’s oversight board

The city has one open spot on its Citizen Oversight Board.
2 min. read
Denver Police officer Ismael Lopez pins a badge to his brother, Ivan lopez’s, lapel as he graduates from the Denver Police Academy. March 31, 2023.
Kevin J. Beaty/Denverite

Denver's Citizen Oversight Board, the city's police watchdog, is taking applications for a vacancy on its board.

Alongside the city's Independent Monitor, the Oversight Board plays a role in overseeing Denver Police Department. In recent years, the board has released reports about police misconduct, particularly during the 2020 George Floyd Protests.

The open seat will fill a vacancy through summer of 2024, after which the board member can seek another term starting in August of 2024. Terms run for four years.

Here are the qualifications to apply:

  • Candidates cannot be an officer or employee of the city
  • Candidates cannot have ever been employed by the Denver Police, sheriff or fire departments, or have an immediate family member ever employed by those departments
  • Candidates must be a resident of Denver

The board lists a number of other desired qualifications, including an interest in criminal justice and safety, an understanding of Denver government, representation of diverse Denver communities and experience with community involvement.

The board meets on the first and third Friday of each month, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., and members can attend virtually or in person. Board members receive a $100 stipend per meeting attended.

In order to apply, applicants need to submit a resume or CV, three references and a cover letter explaining their interest in the position and their relevant experience. Applications are due Sept. 17, and can be found online here.

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