Tulsa City Council Reject Police Oversight Program Proposal

The Tulsa City Council rejects a proposal to create an oversight board for the Tulsa Police Department. The last time the topic was discussed was in 2019.

City Councilors heard from more than 20 citizens but denied the charter amendment on a 7-2 vote. Councilors say they believe in the work, but they couldn't support the language in the amendment.

The Office of the Independent Monitor would have reviewed internal police investigations and made policy recommendations. The 'monitor' position would have been appointed by Mayor G.T Bynum.

Councilors say they didn't feel comfortable voting yes as it was a charter amendment and once it's in place, it's hard to change.

Those in opposition say an OIM is unnecessary because TPD has already created advisory boards for accountability. They also say another concern is how much the program would cost and how it may impact taxpayers.

"I see the money going out the door. Money that you're supposed to be protecting. And I'm sorry I know that it is a very emotional issue for a lot of people, but somebody has to talk about money," Michael Phillips.

Joey Crutcher, the father of Terrance Crutcher who was killed by a former Tulsa Police Office, spoke at tonight's meeting. He said after the video of Ladonna Parris being mistreated by an officer went viral, it shows TPD needs more accountability.

"Ladonna didn't deserve the treatment she received from the city, and neither did my son. They both needed help. How many times will I have to come to this chamber asking for change? For some to say that no one has been talking about the need for an OIM for the last few years is wrong and insulting," said Crutcher.

Several councilors did address the public tonight and say they want to continue to work on creating the OIM but need more time.