Worcester has launched a hotline for residents to report alleged misconduct by cops after the Division of Justice’s bombshell report about metropolis law enforcement officials allegedly sexually assaulting girls and different misconduct.
The DOJ final week launched a scathing report in regards to the Worcester Police Division, alleging that town and police division have dedicated civil rights violations.
Now per week later, town has created a hotline for members of the general public to report alleged misconduct by law enforcement officials. That features reviews of sexual harassment, extreme pressure, discrimination, and bias.
“The launch of the Executive Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion’s hotline is an important step in ensuring that the proper policies and procedures are in place for accountability,” Metropolis Supervisor Eric Batista stated in a press release.
“I have full confidence in the EODEI to build upon the policy and practice efforts we are already making,” the Worcester metropolis supervisor added.
The Division of Justice final week accused the Worcester Police Division of utilizing extreme pressure. The police division additionally allegedly “engages in outrageous government conduct” by permitting undercover officers to take part in sexual contact with prostitutes, the DOJ stated.
The feds additionally raised “serious concerns” that Worcester law enforcement officials have sexually assaulted girls beneath risk of arrest and engaged in different sexual misconduct.
The brand new metropolis hotline was reside as of Monday, and all submissions will probably be obtained and reviewed by the EODEI Investigations Division.
EODEI’s investigators will study all proof and testimony independently and with out bias, town stated.
“I want to reaffirm the municipality’s unwavering commitment to the safety of all residents,” stated Chief Fairness Officer Kevin Lovaincy. “The EODEI will continue to strengthen partnerships between law enforcement, community organizations, and residents to foster relationships of trust and collaboration.
“All investigations conducted within the EODEI will be performed impartially, without bias, to ensure a system of checks and balances that protects the integrity of the process and upholds accountability,” Lovaincy added.
Members of the general public can name the hotline at 774-548-1696 to submit a report of discrimination, bias, harassment, or extreme pressure to the EODEI’s Investigations Division.
People may submit reviews by way of an internet consumption kind accessible on the Metropolis of Worcester web site at kinds.worcesterma.gov/f/InvestigationsIntake.
The shape could be discovered on the municipality’s homepage in addition to the departmental pages for the EODEI, Metropolis Supervisor’s Workplace, Worcester 311, Mayor’s Workplace, Metropolis Council Workplace, and Human Sources. Residents may also go to the EODEI at 51 Sever St., if they like to submit a report in individual.
