San José Mayor and Council Appoint New Independent Police Auditor after Nationwide Search
Eddie Aubrey will leverage 40 years of law and civilian oversight experience to hold the San José Police Department to the highest standards
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 16, 2024
Media Contact:
Tasha Dean, Chief Communications Officer, Office of Mayor Matt Mahan; tasha.dean@sanjoseca.gov
SAN JOSÉ, CA - Today, Mayor Matt Mahan and the San Jose City Council appointed Eddie Aubrey as the new Independent Police Auditor (IPA) after an extensive, nationwide search. Aubrey will assume the role on May 6th, 2024 – replacing acting IPA Karyn Sinunu-Towery, who has headed the department since June of 2023. Aubrey brings a wealth of experience to the role, including 30 years of experience in prosecution and criminal investigations, and nearly a decade of experience in civilian oversight of law enforcement.
“Eddie will help maintain trust between our residents and the people tasked with protecting them,” said San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have a new Independent Police Auditor with extensive experience both working within and overseeing the conduct of law enforcement agencies.”
With nearly 40 years of experience across both prosecution and civilian oversight, Aubrey has demonstrated a deep understanding of the legal system and the standards it must adhere to. Aubrey currently serves as a Civilian Manager for the Richmond Police Department in the Office of Professional Accountability, investigating police misconduct since 2016. Previous roles include Chief Prosecuting Attorney for Renton, WA, Independent Reviewer for Fresno’s Office of Independent Review (IR), seven years as a Judge, Pro Tem, and 11 years in law enforcement.
“I am honored and privileged to assume the role of your next Independent Police Auditor,” said newly appointed San Jose IPA, Eddie Aubrey. “I look forward to the opportunity to engage with the diverse communities in San Jose, advancing police accountability and enhancing police services.”
Aubrey is set to assume responsibilities at the Independent Police Auditor’s office as soon as May 6th with a commitment to upholding the vital tasks of community engagement, developing effective policy recommendations, and the investigation of allegations concerning officer misconduct within the San José Police Department (SJPD).
The San José City Council established the Office of the IPA in 1993 through a City ordinance outlined in the San José Municipal Code. Subsequently, on November 6, 1996, San José voters amended the City Charter, solidifying the Office of the IPA as a permanent entity within city government. The Office of the IPA’s goal is to increase confidence in the SJPD by listening to the community, suggesting policy changes in response to community concerns and making sure that the department addresses officer misconduct.
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About the City of San José
With nearly one million residents, San José is the largest city in the Bay Area and one of the nation's most diverse. San José’s transformation into a global innovation center in the heart of Silicon Valley has resulted in the world's greatest concentration of technology talent and development.