About Us

OPOM-Logo

"Fostering Community Trust through Collaboration and Law Enforcement Accountability and Transparency"

 

 

What is the Office of the Police Oversight Monitor?

 

The City of Fort Worth's Office of the Police Oversight Monitor (OPOM) was first established in February 2020 as a mechanism with which to provide oversight and accountability of the Fort Worth Police Department (FWPD). OPOM envisions being a proactive leader in law enforcement accountability to Fort Worth law enforcement and the population it serves.

 

OPOM mission flyer

 

OPOM Powers

Serve the Community

  • Take your complaints about police misconduct
  • Accept commendations when officers go above and beyond to serve the community well
  • Provide mediation services to help community members and officers work through conflicts
  • Teach people about their rights and how to file complaints
  • Host community forums and attend local events to hear your concerns

Provide Independent Oversight

  • Review Internal Affairs investigations for fairness, completeness, and consistent policy compliance that protects everyone's rights
  • Spot patterns in use of force incidents and complaints to identify problems early
  • Issue public reports that shine light on police practices and recommend improvements

 

Improve the System

  • Support officers by recommending clear policies and proper training to do their jobs safely and effectively
  • Conduct research and audits to strengthen accountability and build trust
  • Work to connect community voices with police leadership to promote understanding

 

OPOM Restrictions

OPOM Does NOT Have Enforcement Powers

  • We cannot fire, suspend, or discipline officers (only the police department can do that)
  • We cannot force the police department to take specific actions in cases
  • We cannot conduct our own investigations separate from the police department's process

We Don't Provide Legal Services

  • We cannot provide legal advice or represent you in court
  • We cannot get involved in criminal cases or court proceedings
  • We stay neutral and independent rather than advocating for one side

We Cannot Guarantee Results

  • While we work hard to ensure fair processes, we cannot promise specific outcomes or punishments