WHO WE ARE

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OUR MISSION & VISION

Our mission and vision are the driving forces that guide everything PAB does. Our mission, set by an overwhelming majority of Rochester’s voters, is to “ensure public accountability and transparency over the powers exercised by sworn officers of the Rochester Police Department.” Our vision, set by the community members who serve on our Board, is to reimagine public safety. To understand how we achieve our mission and our vision, you’ll need to understand our history, our values, and our work.

OUR HISTORY

Before PAB came into being, the only oversight for RPD was the Civilian Review Board (CRB). The CRB had limited authority because it did not have the ability to: open external investigations, collect evidence, or interview witnesses.

The PAB’s mission is much broader. Our goal is to bring about full transparency and accountability of findings, practices, policies and procedures of the RPD. 

  • Investigate allegations and practices of police wrongdoing.
  • Craft legislation for systemic change.
  • Hold hearings and subpoena

Once new legislation is drafted by the PAB, it is handed over to Rochester City Council who will vote whether or not to pass the new law. However, the only guarantee something gets done is through the pressure of the community. Center our community in making sure new laws get passed.

OUR VALUES

Ideas that define our culture
These values include:

OUR WORK

Our Charter governs the day-to-day actions of our Board Members and staff. The Charter sets out four core tasks the Board must fulfill. Each these core tasks is fulfilled by a different Division of the Board. These Divisions are described below.

Policy and Oversight Division

Oversees the policies, practices, and procedures that constitute Rochester’s policing system and creates proposals to keep Rochesterians safer.

Public Affairs & Community Engagement Division

Ensures the community is educated about our public safety system and is engaged in all parts of PAB’s work.

Operations Division

Ensures the Board operates accessibly, functionally, and transparently.

These Divisions are organized under an Executive Office, which provides the leadership and legal support necessary to ensure the success of the Board’s day-to-day work. In turn, the Executive Office reports to the Board itself, which is comprised of nine Rochesterians who serve as volunteers. Each nominee subject to City Council approval.

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