Pasadena Police Auditor Working on Pursuits Report

Pasadena’s Independent Police Auditor will present findings from a comprehensive review of vehicle pursuits to the Community Police Oversight Commission (CPOC) this summer, part of an expanded oversight agenda that includes use-of-force evaluations and enhanced complaint processes.

The draft report on vehicle pursuits is currently under review by the Pasadena Police Department, police officers association and the City Attorney, with a formal presentation expected in July or August, according to the auditor’s monthly report to be presented Thursday to the oversight commission.

The vehicle pursuit review represents one of several key oversight initiatives scheduled for 2025, as the Independent Police Auditor’s office works to evaluate police operations and ensure compliance with established policies and community expectations.

According to a preliminary report, the auditor’s fourth-quarter agenda will focus on use-of-force evaluations, including sampling various types of force employed by officers and examining both administrative and tactical processes. The reviews will assess policy adherence and effectiveness of force applications.

The Independent Police Auditor is also conducting reviews of closed complaint investigations to verify their thoroughness and fairness, the report showed. While these retrospective reviews do not affect case outcomes, they are designed to improve procedural quality and transparency in future investigations.

Critical incident reviews continue as an ongoing priority, with the auditor participating in review boards and contributing to both administrative and criminal review processes for serious incidents.

The auditor’s office has expanded its mediation program by joining a national group of police mediators, reflecting a growing emphasis on alternative dispute resolution methods for police-community conflicts.

Technology improvements are also being implemented to enhance accessibility to the complaint process, according to the report. The auditor’s office is distributing QR-coded cards to officers and supervisors to provide easier access to complaint procedures and resources.

The Independent Police Auditor’s office provides oversight of the Pasadena Police Department through policy reviews, complaint investigations and critical incident analysis. The Community Police Oversight Commission meets monthly at Pasadena City Hall.

The report also said the auditor’s comprehensive approach includes regular attendance at review boards, educational outreach at complaint intake sites and maintenance of administrative processes for claims against the police department.