Worcester City Manager Eric D. Batista has unveiled a series of initiatives in response to a Department of Justice investigation that found instances of excessive force, sexual misconduct, and discriminatory enforcement within the city’s police department. One of the key measures introduced is the establishment of a hotline for the public to report police misconduct, overseen by the Executive Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (EODEI). Additionally, the EODEI will conduct training sessions on behavioral health and implicit bias to inform departmental policies.
Batista labeled the findings of the DOJ report as “unacceptable and shocking,” emphasizing the need for immediate action to prevent future misconduct. A Civilian Review Board is also being proposed, with community input expected in the board’s formation. The city is already working on improvements in data collection and analytics to enhance transparency.
The DOJ report, released on December 9, outlined 19 recommendations for the police department, including improved use of force standards, and a complete prohibition on sexual contact for law enforcement purposes. Mayor Joseph Petty has expressed his intention to request a report on the next steps from Batista within 30 days. In the meantime, the city is focused on building trust with the community through ongoing outreach efforts.
These initiatives come following a two-year civil investigation by the DOJ that uncovered troubling practices within the Worcester Police Department. As the city works towards implementing these changes, the goal is to ensure that proper policies and procedures are in place for accountability and to show compassion to those impacted by the misconduct.
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