Part 5/7:
Kelly raises concerns about possible changes in the department’s internal oversight. One significant issue is the role of the Civilian Complaint Review Board (CCRB), which Mandani appears inclined to amplify in authority—potentially taking disciplinary powers away from the police commissioner and giving them directly to the civilian oversight body.
Additionally, Mandani has signaled an intention to disband or drastically alter the Strategic Response Group, a specialized unit that responds to protests and other critical incidents. Kelly warns that eliminating or weakening such units could have serious implications, especially during times of civil unrest or large-scale demonstrations.