Orlando hires third-party groups to ‘deep dive’ into police department, assess reform needs

ORLANDO, Fla. — The city of Orlando announced a new initiative to address race relations with police.

Mayor Buddy Dyer said following George Floyd’s death, city officials heard from a lot of people in Orlando who wanted use of force looked at in the department.

READ: Group highlights police violence while calling for focus on community healing

The city said it took some steps almost immediately, including banning “no-knock” warrants and choke holds.

But the city has also now hired two different third-party groups to take what they call a “deep dive” into the department.

One group with a law enforcement background will make reform recommendations on training, operational practices, and technology. The Bethune-Cookman University Center for Law and Social Justice will also have a role in the process.

READ: Orange County health officials investigating 2 super-spreader events

BCU’s role will be to help provide engagement with people in minority communities and get police involved in interactive training with people in those communities.

The city said the studies are expected to take about eight months and cost around $850,000.

Watch the news conference below:

Watch Channel 9 Eyewitness News for live updates.

Video: Orlando hires third-party groups to ‘deep dive’ into police department, assess reform needs The city of Orlando announced a new initiative to address race relations with police.