Opening Remarks and PCARC Overview

Chair Aaron Hayes welcomed attendees to the 2026 annual summit, introduced fellow commissioners, and provided a historical overview of the St. Paul Police Civilian Internal Affairs Review Commission (PCARC). He detailed its 1993 creation as a pioneering 'review and recommend' model and discussed how recent legislative changes in 2023-2024 by the Minnesota Legislature have opened possibilities for St. Paul to adopt a more robust civilian oversight model, emphasizing community voice in shaping the future.

Mayor's Address on Community First Policing

Mayor Khali Her shared her personal experience as a former PCARC commissioner, expressing deep value for the review process and the commission's dedication. She outlined her vision for 'Community First Policing,' defining it as public safety built with, not done to, the community. She emphasized listening, transparency, accountability, and strong relationships, highlighting PCARC's role as fundamental to St. Paul's belief in community voice in shaping law enforcement culture.

Office of Neighborhood Safety Presentation

Assistant Mayor Cedric Baker introduced the Office of Neighborhood Safety (ONS), detailing its non-law enforcement role in interrupting cycles of crisis, particularly gun violence and unsheltered homelessness. He explained 'Project Peace' for gun violence reduction and 'Familiar Faces' for supporting the homeless with life coaching and services. Baker highlighted ONS's partnerships with various departments and community organizations, showcasing 2025 accomplishments and outlining a future vision for upstream prevention and a regional approach to public safety challenges. Director Toy Vixavon briefly echoed commitment to the community.

PCARC Annual Report Data Summary

Coordinator Sierra Cumberland presented a summary of the 2025 PCARC annual report data. She reported 108 total external complaints, with 44 eligible for PCARC review. The largest reasons for ineligibility were open criminal/civil cases and complaints against non-city employees. 'Improper procedure' was the most frequent allegation. Of 83 allegations reviewed by PCARC, 20% were sustained, with retraining being the most common recommended disciplinary action. Cumberland also detailed the Chief's role in final decisions and the process for 'departures,' where the Chief's decision differs from the commission's.

Chief of Police Remarks

Chief Henry clarified the police department's communication with the Office of Neighborhood Safety, specifically the 'referral' process for at-risk youth involved in gang/gun violence, emphasizing prevention and intervention, citing a 96% success rate for a program at Redwing. He encouraged community members to consider joining the PCARC, stating it's an 'incredible way to give back' and a 'really important function' for ensuring accountability and continuous improvement within the police department.

Panel Discussion and Audience Q&A

Commissioners shared their motivations for serving, emphasizing making a difference and advocating for better policies. Commander Jeff Schwab outlined the internal affairs investigation process, including evidence gathering and body-worn camera review. Chief Henry discussed his disciplinary decision-making, balancing accountability with redemption and legal precedent, noting that many internal complaints are also generated. The Q&A segment covered ONS client follow-up, police-ONS communication flow, guidance for community complaints, clarifications on PCARC data (especially 'departures'), and the substantial workload undertaken by commissioners. Panelists emphasized the value of diverse perspectives and constant communication.