In this episode, we explore the intricate world of auditing within the San Francisco Department of Police Accountability. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by a one-person audit team, the significance of stop data in ensuring police accountability, and the implications of racial profiling in data reporting. Steve Flaherty shares insights on the audit process, data integrity, and best practices for law enforcement agencies, highlighting the importance of accurate data collection and analysis in fostering public trust.
Steve discusses the complexities of police data collection and auditing, focusing on the challenges faced by officers, the effectiveness of training, and the implications of data integrity. He shares insights from an audit of the San Francisco Police Department, highlighting the transition to new data systems, the analysis of data errors, and the importance of community engagement in understanding policing practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency and the role of auditors in ensuring data reliability.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Super Auditor
02:06 The Role of a One-Person Audit Team
03:52 Understanding the Department of Police Accountability
05:53 The Importance of Stop Data in Audits
07:36 Investigating Racial Profiling in Stop Data
09:59 Assessing Data Integrity and Reporting Practices
12:35 Challenges in Audit Processes
14:29 Testing Data Reliability and Integrity
18:14 Best Practices in Data Collection
20:33 Addressing Racial Misrepresentation in Data
22:50 Benchmarking Against Other Jurisdictions
24:52 Understanding the Core Issues in Police Data Collection
27:05 Officer Perspectives and Challenges in Data Reporting
28:51 Evaluating Data Collection Tools and Their Impact
30:35 Transitioning to New Data Systems: Pros and Cons
32:55 Analyzing Data Errors and Their Implications
34:39 Insights from the Audit Process and Findings
38:49 Lessons Learned and Future Directions for Auditing
41:52 Engaging with the Community and Data Transparency
About Steve Flaherty:
Steve Flaherty is the Director of Audits at the San Francisco Department of Police Accountability (DPA). Steve established the department’s audit function and has led projects on police use of force and the handling of officer misconduct. Previously, Steve served as Associate Director at the City and County of San Francisco’s Office of the Controller, where he oversaw audit teams in the City Services Auditor division. He holds a BA in Business-Economics and is a Certified Public Accountant (inactive), Certified Internal Auditor, and Certified Fraud Examiner.