The Detectives Endowment Association (DEA), New York City's detectives union, has publicly criticized the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB), a city agency tasked with investigating civilian complaints against police officers. The union parked a billboard truck outside the CCRB's headquarters displaying the names and photos of six investigators, labeling them "anti-cop activists."
According to the DEA, these investigators have previously made negative statements about police on social media and in written works. DEA President Scott Munro stated that New Yorkers should be aware of these individuals, alleging that the CCRB has become a place where "anti-cop activists masquerading as investigators" work to "go after detectives, damage careers and make the job of protecting this city even harder."
The targeted investigators were among eight CCRB employees previously identified by the Police Benevolent Association (PBA) in a May 7 letter. The PBA demanded their dismissal, citing social media posts and college essays they claimed demonstrated "blatant evidence of anti-police bias." Examples cited include investigators posting the acronym "A.C.A.B." (All Cops Are Bastards) on social media and expressing views advocating for the elimination of police in essays.
The CCRB acknowledged the allegations and informed City Council members in June that it was investigating the claims. A spokesperson for the agency stated that the investigation is ongoing and that the CCRB is committed to conducting fair and impartial investigations, taking allegations of bias "extremely seriously."
However, some within law enforcement expressed skepticism about the fairness of the process at the CCRB. One law enforcement source described the agency as a "kangaroo court," questioning how officers could receive a fair hearing from individuals who may already hold negative views towards them. The source added, "These are the same people who cry ‘equity for everyone,’ but that doesn’t count if you have a blue uniform on."
The billboard truck featured images of several CCRB investigators accused of anti-police sentiments. . The DEA's action escalates tensions between the police unions and the oversight agency. The CCRB investigates complaints ranging from excessive force to misconduct. Its operations and the impartiality of its investigators have become a point of contention.
The dispute highlights ongoing debates surrounding police accountability and the role of civilian oversight in New York City. The PBA and DEA have consistently advocated for stricter scrutiny of the CCRB's processes and personnel, while the CCRB maintains its commitment to impartiality and due process for all parties involved in its investigations.