Rochester Police Accountability Board Faces Backlash Over Release of Misconduct Reports

The Rochester Police Accountability Board (PAB) has sparked controversy after releasing 31 reports detailing police misconduct, despite strong objections from city officials.

The reports, which cover incidents from 2020 onward, were published online on September 22, 2024. The PAB says their goal is to increase transparency within the Rochester Police Department (RPD).

The release included redacted documents that outlined various instances of alleged officer misconduct, such as misuse of body cameras, excessive use of force, and wrongful arrests. According to the PAB, 23 out of the 31 reports contained sustained allegations of misconduct, recommending disciplinary actions ranging from written apologies to termination.

However, city officials, led by Corporation Counsel Patrick Beath, condemned the release, citing potential legal and ethical violations. Beath's letter to the PAB argued that the release violated the city's code of ethics and ongoing litigation over police disciplinary files. City leaders warned that the reports might reveal confidential information, despite the redactions, and could influence ongoing legal disputes.

“It remains the City’s legal position that the Police Accountability Board, per its charter, does not have the authority to publish internal investigative reports, and that publication of such reports, redacted or otherwise, violates local law, the automatic stay of the Fourth Department’s decision in the NYCLU matter, and the City’s own Code of Ethics,” the city said in a statement.

The Police Locust Club, the union representing Rochester police officers, also expressed concerns, claiming that even redacted reports could lead to officer identification. They pledged to take steps to protect officers' privacy and legal rights. Meanwhile, PAB officials, including Executive Director Lesli Myers-Small, defended the decision, emphasizing the importance of public accountability and transparency in policing.

This incident has deepened the divide between the PAB and city leadership, raising questions about the board’s authority to release such sensitive information. While the PAB sought legal counsel before the release, city officials maintain that the action was premature and potentially damaging to both officers and the public.