Pasadena’s Independent Police Auditor will outline an ambitious work plan Thursday focusing on use-of-force reviews and complaint investigations through mid-2026.
Teresa Magula, the independent police auditor, will present the timeline to the Community Police Oversight Commission during its regular meeting at City Hall.
The IPA has completed case reviews of use-of-force incidents. She plans to meet with police leadership soon to discuss findings and recommendations.
A draft report to the Pasadena Police Department is expected in the coming weeks.
The most significant element of the presentation involves a comprehensive complaint review starting in late December. The auditor will sample cases from all review levels, including section-level and internal affairs investigations.
The review aims to measure progress against recommendations from a 2024 audit. It will also identify new trends or challenges in the department’s handling of complaints.
A report is expected in the first quarter of 2026.
The work plan includes a special topic review for the second quarter of 2026. An ad hoc committee will help determine the focus. Possible topics include responses to people experiencing mental health crises or domestic violence calls.
The auditor continues monitoring two critical incidents. One involves the April 14, 2024, fatal officer?involved shooting of 36?year?old Ricardo Andrade following a police pursuit and crash. It remains under criminal and administrative review.
Andrade was later identified as a San Fernando resident wanted for a felony warrant.
A Sept. 7, 2025, incident is currently in administrative review.
The commission will also receive a presentation on California’s Public Safety Officers’ Procedural Bill of Rights (POBR) Act. Lieutenant Christopher Kirby from the Professional Standards Unit will join Magula for this portion.
The POBR law, signed in 1976 by Governor Jerry Brown, establishes statewide uniform procedures for administrative investigations of peace officers.
The legislation protects officers from arbitrary or retaliatory investigations while maintaining investigative integrity.
Key provisions include notice of investigations, reasonable timing for interrogations, and the right to representation. Officers also receive access to recordings and reports related to their cases.
Violations can result in significant consequences. Civil penalties can reach $25,000 plus attorney fees. Courts may also issue injunctions or reverse disciplinary actions.
The auditor’s office encourages community contact through its website at www.oirgroup.com or by email at Info@OIRGroup.com.
The Independent Police Auditor position represents a critical check on law enforcement accountability. It provides civilian oversight of police investigations and disciplinary procedures.
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