Phil Matier: What's Next For Oakland Police Department?
OAKLAND (KCBS) – With the sudden departure of Oakland Police Chief Howard Jordan on Wednesday, many are asking what's next for the embattled department?
Assistant Chief Anthony Toribio is taking the helm as acting chief as city officials launch a nationwide search for a permanent replacement for Jordan.
Phil Matier: What's Next For Oakland Police Department
Most in the department and city leaders said Jordan's announcement caught them off guard. For his part, Toribio has a tough road ahead as acting chief, with recommendations set forth by the Bratton Group, a group of law enforcement consultants led by former New York City Police Commissioner William Bratton. The report was commissioned by the City of Oakland at a cost of $250,000.
Many people question who would actually want to take over the struggling police department, which is already fighting a higher crime rate, a diminished police force and mandates from federal courts.
There is also the question of what the stance is of city leaders on crime and how to best implement the necessary changes to make improvements. Needless to say, it will be a tough job at hand for whoever is chosen to replace Jordan as top cop in Oakland.
You can hear Phil Matier's comments Monday through Friday at 7:50am and 5:50pm on KCBS All News 740AM and 106.9FM.
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