Independent Monitor
Frequently Asked Questions
Mediation Process
What is Mediation?
- An alternative to the traditional complaint
and disciplinary process. Committing to mediation represents the final step in the formal complaint process. If the complainant offers to mediate and the officer agrees, the complaint will be considered resolved and dismissed.
- A voluntary and confidential process in which a professional mediator helps community members and officers talk and listen to each other.
- A chance for officers to hear how their actions affected community members and vice versa.
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What Mediation is NOT:
- A process to make judgments about who
is right or wrong. No evidence or witnesses are needed.
- A session in which parties are forced to
shake hands and make up.
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What are the benefits of using Mediation?
- Mediation allows officers and civilians to
resolve complaints themselves, rather than depend on the judgment of others.
- Mediation is more satisfying than the
regular complaint process. Nearly all those who have mediated say they would recommend it to others.
- Mediation can make a real difference in
the understanding, attitude, and behavior of participants.
- Mediation can improve relationships
between community members and police.
- Mediation is cost effective.
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How are Mediation cases selected?
Complainants are generally offered the option of mediation during the intake process; it is first and foremost the complainant's choice. Potential mediation cases must also be reviewed and approved by the Independent Monitor and theDenver Police Department's Internal Affairs Commander. If the officer alsoagrees to participate, mediations are scheduled for a mutually agreeable time and place (including weekends and evenings).
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What is the Role of the Mediator?
The mediator is a neutral third party trained and experienced in helping people talk through and resolve their differences in constructive ways. The Monitor' Office has contracted with a team of professional mediators to conduct community/police mediations.
The mediator will:
- Explain the process and groundrules and
answer any questions.
- Listen to both sides of the story.
- Ask questions to clarify what happened and identify central issues.
- Help keep the discussion focused, productive and nonthreatening.
- NOT take sides, place blame, or pass
judgment.
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