Civilian Review

Rhode Island Police Officers Commission on Standards and Training

RI POCST

22/100

Summary

The POCST is appointed by the governor; at least three members must be chiefs of local police departments and at least one must come from a League of Cities and Towns list. It sets mandatory training standards and certifies training programs but has no decertification authority — legislation to add that power (H 7312 / S 2215) failed in 2024. It exercises no discipline or use-of-force investigative function.

Independence Scorecard

Independence Score: 22/100 (weak)
22/100
Nominal
Methodology v0.1
AppointmentExecutive appointment
Term length3 years
Removal standardAt will (weak protection)
Budget independenceExecutive discretion
Subpoena powerNo
Compel testimonyNo
Records accessRestricted
Public reports requiredNo
Pre-publication reviewNone — reports published directly

Statute

Name
Police Officers — Commission on Standards and Training
Citation
R.I. Gen. Laws ch. 42-28.2
Full text
Full text of law →

Jurisdiction scope

All municipal and state law enforcement officers in Rhode Island

Other civilian review bodies in Rhode Island