Mayor Krewson And Chief O'Toole Call For Independent Investigation Into Police Department's Response To Demonstrations

Mayor Lyda Krewson and Police Chief Lawrence O’Toole have pledged an objective, thorough, and fair investigation of all complaints and lawsuits stemming from the St. Louis City Police Department’s response to the demonstrations and civil disobedience over the past week and a half.

This effort will include Internal Affairs, the Civilian Oversight Board, and an independent third party investigation. It is important that the public have confidence in the results of this process, therefore Mayor Krewson and Chief O’Toole are calling on the U.S. Attorney for an independent third party investigation of the conduct, allegations and lawsuits.

As of Wednesday morning, the Police Department's Internal Affairs Division has received a dozen grievances in connection with the departments response to the demonstrations and civil disobedience since the release of the verdict in the Stockley case.

These are troubling and difficult allegations and it is important to determine if they are merited and, if so, what policy, training, or discipline issues need to be addressed. In addition to filing a complaint with Internal Affairs, complaints can also be filed directly to the Civilian Oversight Board.

The men and women of the St. Louis Police Department have repeatedly demonstrated their commitment to the safety of our city and citizens. They have worked thousands of extra hours in high tension situations to ensure that demonstrators can march safely in our streets and to protect people and property from those who intend destruction and harm. “I thank and respect our officers for their service and dedication,” Mayor Krewson said.