Police Reform Advisory Committee (PRAC)

The Police Reform Advisory Committee (PRAC) is established to advise the BOT on addressing and implementing essential reforms within the Ossining Police Department. The following are the objectives, responsibilities, and activities to be undertaken by this committee to build trust in the reform process, enhance community-police relations and ensure the safety and well-being of primarily all residents, but also those whom interact with the Ossining Police Department (e.g., contractors, employees of local businesses, travelers, visitors, etc.).

Objectives of the PRAC are as follows:

  1. Review and analyze current police policies, practices, and procedures.
  2. Identify and recommend areas for reform and improvement within the Ossining Police Department that will improve transparency, trust, and accountability between the police department and the community.
  3. Solicit public input and feedback after implementation on police reform.
  4. Recommend actionable reforms to the Board of Trustees.

The PRAC will be responsible for the following tasks:

  1. Conduct a comprehensive review of existing police policies and procedures.
  2. Organize community engagement sessions, such as: town hall meetings and surveys to gather input and concerns from residents.
  3. Collaborate with the Ossining Police Department to gain insights into their operations and challenges.
  4. Research best practices and innovative strategies in police reform.
  5. Develop recommendations for policy changes, training improvements, and community outreach initiatives.
  6. Establish clear timelines and benchmarks for the implementation of proposed reforms.
  7. Provide regular updates and an annual report to the Ossining Village Board of Trustees and the community.

The PRAC will maintain transparency and accountability throughout its operations:

  1. Publish recommendations and progress reports on the official Ossining Village website.
  2. Ensure that all discussions and decisions are open to public scrutiny.
  3. Collaborate with independent experts or agencies for impartial evaluations, as needed.

The PRAC's work shall commence immediately. A final report with reform recommendations will be submitted to the Village of Ossining Board of Trustees by December 31, 2025.

Additional Considerations

  1. Funding: The PRAC will be funded by the Village of Ossining to cover expenses related to meetings, research, outreach, and any necessary expert consultations.
  2. Review and Amendments: This scope of work is subject to periodic review and request amendments as necessary to align with evolving community needs and priorities.

The Village of Ossining Police Reform Advisory Committee will work diligently to advance a strong and collaborative relationship between the community and the police department, with the goal of creating a safer and more accountable environment for all.

Village Board Liaison: Deputy Mayor Omar Lopez

agena and mins  subscirbe

NameTitleExpiration
Rev Mary Phifer

Chair

12/31/2025

Jim Burnett

Member

12/31/2025

Jennifer Cabrera

CPCRB representative

12/31/2025

Member

12/31/2025

Althema Goodson

Member

12/31/2025

Rev. Shaun Ellison Jones

Member

12/31/2025

Sergeant Patrick McGovern

Member (OPD Representative)

12/31/2025

Kemi Pogue

Member

12/31/2025

Jermain Smith

Member

12/31/2025

Bishop Joan Whittaker

Member

12/31/2025