APD to Face Independent Investigation After Rollins Convictions

APD to Face Independent Investigation After Rollins Convictions

ANCHORAGE, Alaska—
The Anchorage Police Department’s policy and procedures relating to supervision and disciplinary actions will be the subject of an independent investigation according to Anchorage Mayor Dan Sullivan, who cited APD’s handling of sexual assaults by former officer Anthony Rollins.
A statement from Sullivan’s office Monday said the International Association of Chiefs of Police were in contract discussions to conduct the external review. The move comes in the wake of concerns about whether Rollins received timely and appropriate discipline for sexually assaulting several women at APD’s now-closed Mountain View substation from 2006 to 2009.
“The IACP are experts in the areas of police operating procedures, policies, and training,” city officials wrote. “They will review the corrective actions that have been taken, and make recommendations as to what more should be done in order to maintain officers of the highest integrity and professionalism.”
Assault While the statement noted APD’s rapid initiation of criminal investigations that ultimately resulted in Rollins’ February 2011 conviction on 18 of 20 counts of sexual assault and misconduct, Sullivan said the review would help bolster public confidence in the force.
“APD has acted proactively to improve policies and programs within the department,” Sullivan said. “However, we do not want to miss an opportunity to further improve how we operate and continue to earn the trust of the public. The external review will help us accomplish this goal.”
Sullivan’s office says results of the review are expected in about four months.