(Washington, DC) – The District of Columbia Office of Police Complaints (OPC) and its governing body, the Police Complaints Board (PCB), released today its Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report. This report includes information on OPC investigations, policy recommendations, and outreach efforts.

In FY24, OPC received a total of 942 complaints, marking a 7% increase over the 883 complaints filed in FY23. This represents the highest number of complaints in the agency’s history since its inception.

Additionally, there were 1,553 allegations of misconduct reported in FY24. Harassment allegations accounted for 48% of all complaints received, followed by inappropriate language/conduct (25%) and unnecessary or excessive force (13%).

Of the 943 complaints filed:

• Black officers accounted for 47%; White officers, 32%; Hispanic/Latino officers, 15%; Asian officers, 4%; and Multi-Racial and Native American, 2%.
   
• Male officers were the subject of 83% of complaints, while females were the subject of 17%.
   
• Officers under the age of 35, who make up 35% of the force, were the subject of 47% of complaints.

The report also highlights that 77% of investigations included body-worn camera (BWC) footage, which continues to improve investigative efficiency and reduce the percentage of cases withdrawn by a complainant. Additionally, 33% of cases with BWC footage revealed at least one form of BWC non-compliance, though this figure reflects a 5% decrease from FY23.

As part of its oversight role, the PCB issued five policy recommendations in FY24, including improving guidance on involuntary emergency hospitalization procedures and clarifying the legal standards for protective pat downs. To date, the PCB has issued 76 reports and sets of recommendations.

Outreach remained a key focus for OPC in FY24, with agency staff conducting and participating in various events across the District. Highlights include the Student Interactive Training program, which engaged the youth on their constitutional rights and positive interactions with law enforcement, and partnerships with organizations to heighten the public awareness of the agency.

“Each year, we work to ensure our community has a clear and transparent view of the complaints we receive and the actions taken,” said Michael G. Tobin, OPC’s executive director. “Our goal remains to improve trust between the community and law enforcement by identifying patterns of concern and recommending meaningful policy changes.”

To view the full report, visit www.policecomplaints.dc.gov.