Mediation Program

The Civilian Police Oversight Agency (CPOA) Mediation/Facilitated Resolution program provides an opportunity for civilian complainants and Albuquerque Police Department (APD) personnel to resolve eligible complaints through constructive dialogue rather than a formal administrative investigation. Consistent with the Police Oversight Ordinance, mediation is considered the preferred first option for resolving appropriate complaints whenever possible. The program is facilitated by independent, neutral mediators who are not affiliated with the CPOA, APD, or the City of Albuquerque. Mediation/Facilitated Resolution is designed to improve communication, promote mutual understanding, resolve conflict, and strengthen trust between the community and law enforcement. Sessions may be conducted in person, virtually, by telephone, or in a hybrid format to best accommodate participants.

Participation is voluntary and does not constitute an admission of misconduct, liability, or wrongdoing by any participant. The CPOA Executive Director determines whether a complaint is appropriate for mediation and may refer a complaint to the program at any stage before investigative findings are issued. If the participants engage in good faith and complete the facilitated dialogue, the complaint will be resolved without a formal investigation, even if the participants do not agree on the facts or reach a settlement. If APD personnel decline to participate or do not participate in good faith as determined by the neutral mediators, the complaint proceeds through the CPOA’s standard investigative process. If the complainant declines to participate, withdraws, or fails to participate in good faith as determined by the neutral mediators, the complaint will be closed in accordance with the Police Oversight Ordinance and CPOA policy. Information shared during mediation is treated as confidential to the extent permitted by law and CPOA policy.

For more information regarding the program, please review the CPOA Mediation/Facilitated Resolution Program policy.