Spokane Ends Over 30-Year Community Policing Partnership Amid Funding Dispute

Spokane's longstanding Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) initiative has concluded its partnership with the city after over three decades. The volunteer-led program, which depended on municipal funding, faced uncertainties following the failure to renew its contract. Despite being offered a $200,000 grant for a two-year period, COPS declined to accept, citing inadequate financial support. Historically, the program received approximately $500,000 annually under a five-year agreement. Spokane Police Chief Kevin Hall explained that a significant obstacle was the lack of comprehensive data on the program's activities. "When I took office, it was challenging to determine what COPS was accomplishing due to limited metrics," Chief Hall stated. "There was no malicious intent; however, providing detailed information proved difficult." He added, "We offered a $200,000 contract, but internal issues within the organization prevented them from signing and enabling us to allocate funds." As the city moves forward without the COPS program, Chief Hall highlighted the importance of volunteer involvement with varied skills to bolster community policing efforts. He expressed hope that new in...