ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) Albuquerque city councilors are expected to take action on a measure next month that would suspend civilian oversight of the city's troubled police department. Councilor Isaac Benton introduced the proposal to suspend the Police Oversight Commission during Monday's council meeting. A different proposal would establish a new oversight agency with a funding source and certain powers.
Critics contend the current commission has no power, and the U.S. Justice Department in its scathing investigation of Albuquerque police recommended oversight of the police department be revamped.
Other council proposals expected to be considered next month would change how the police chief is chosen. The mayor now picks the chief, but one new proposal would make the mayor's choice subject to council confirmation. Another proposal calls for election of the chief.
