Up To Date

How An Independent Civilian Oversight Office Handles Complaints Against Kansas City Police

By Steve Kraske,

Published June 30, 2020 at 12:50 PM CDT

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Kansas City resident Troy Hughes speaks with Police chief Rick Smith about police getting training to diffuse tense situations. — In the wake of George Floyd protests on the Plaza, citizen oversight of the Kansas City Police Department has come into question. Police Chief Rick Smith is shown here in conversation with a protester on June 3.

One controversy involving the Kansas City Police Department has to do with oversight from the Office of Community Complaints. Critics say the office rarely rules against law enforcement, and are raising questions about how effective and fair it is.

The independent oversight agency that handles grievances against the Kansas City Police Department is often criticized. We found out how they operate.

Merrell Bennekin, executive director of the Office of Community Complaints

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Steve Kraske

When I host Up To Date each morning at 9, my aim is to engage the community in conversations about the Kansas City area’s challenges, hopes and opportunities. I try to ask the questions that listeners want answered about the day’s most pressing issues and provide a place for residents to engage directly with newsmakers. Reach me at steve@kcur.org or on Twitter @stevekraske.

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Danie Alexander

As senior producer of Up To Date, I want our listeners to hear familiar and new voices that shine light on the issues and challenges facing the myriad communities KCUR serves, and to expose our audiences to the wonderful and the creative in the Kansas City area. Just as important to me is an obligation to mentor the next generation of producers to ensure that the important conversations continue. Reach me at alexanderdk@kcur.org.

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Luke X. Martin

As culture editor, I oversee KCUR’s coverage of race, culture, the arts, food and sports. I work with reporters to make sure our stories reflect the fullest view of the place we call home, so listeners and readers feel primed to explore the places, projects and people who make up a vibrant Kansas City. Email me at luke@kcur.org.

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