Over the past several months, the Village of Lombard has received a number of inquiries from the public concerning Lombard Police Department policies and practices. Earlier this summer, the Village shared information regarding Police policies and practices drafted in response to inquiries submitted by interested individuals. At that time, the Village affirmatively stated its commitment to stand united with fellow Lombardians against any and all acts of violence and racism within our community and to reject discrimination towards any person under any circumstance.
In honor of this commitment, the Village has revisited internal policies and police practices and made updates and policy refinements over the past several months. Additionally, Lombard Police and Village Officials have been meeting regularly with leaders from the Lombard based community group, Lombard Allies for Racial Justice (LARJ), to discuss issues of racial equality, social justice and policing. The items discussed on this subject, as well as information regarding police policies, training, and practices, have been compiled in a fact sheet and are being shared with the public in the interest of education, openness and transparency.
A brief summary of the highlights and new items of discussion follow below, but interested individuals are encouraged to read the full fact sheet for complete details:
- Use of Force Policy Updated – The use of force policy was updated to explicitly require police officers to intervene if they observe the use of excessive force by a fellow police officer. This update supplements existing law which provides that any officer who purposefully allows another officer to violate an individual’s Constitutional rights is subject to prosecution for failure to intervene. All officers have reviewed and been trained on the updated policy.
- Village training commitment – The Village is committed to the highest standards and best practices in officer training. Village officers have participated in training on topics including de-escalation, diversity, inclusion, human rights, bias, and mental health awareness. Further, Village employees in all departments will be participating in an upcoming diversity and inclusion training institute day.
- Use of cameras – The Village of Lombard has committed to review and evaluate the use of police cameras as part of the 2021 budget review process. The Lombard Police Department is recommending and requesting funding to support implementation and utilization of police cameras.
- Accountability – The Lombard Police Department has a formal process for officer complaints and all formal complaints are taken seriously and investigated. Additionally, Lombard Police Department policy requires any use of force or threat of deadly force is reviewed at any occurrence. Members of the public may file a complaint regarding officer conduct at the Lombard Police Department by completing an officer complaint form and affidavit.
Dialogue and analysis with the community and the Lombard Allies for Racial Justice on these issues is ongoing and anticipated to continue moving forward. The Village of Lombard is committed to continually engage with those we serve in a courteous and professional manner. We value and respect all citizens and will continue to work hard to earn and maintain the trust of our community.