The citizens' law enforcement review board shall receive, cause investigation of,
and recommend resolution of complaints filed with it alleging misconduct by members
of the Memphis Police Department and the Shelby County Sheriff's Department, when
such misconduct is directed toward any person who is not a member of that police force
or sheriff's department. The board will act on complaints filed with it, including
but not limited to the use of excessive or deadly force and incidents resulting in
the death or injury of persons in police custody; other physical abuse; verbal abuse;
harassment; improper procedure, arrest, search, entry; inadequate response or investigation;
intimidation or threat; improper firearm or vehicle use; and property issues. The
board shall perform such other duties not inconsistent with the provision of this
chapter or any Shelby County ordinance that may govern.
In order to carry out its functions, the board is authorized to request through the
Memphis City Council or the Shelby County Commission that when necessary the council
or the commission would exercise that body's subpoena powers to effectuate an investigation.
The council and commission shall provide by ordinance the penalty or penalties for
contempt in refusing to obey any such subpoena or to produce such texts, papers, and
other evidence.
