Police Review Board Chief Critiques Gainey Administration's Transparency in Pittsburgh

The head of the independent Citizen Police Review Board (CPRB), Beth Pittinger, criticized Mayor Ed Gainey’s administration for its lack of transparency regarding law enforcement matters during a recent public board meeting. Pittinger asserted, “This administration has not been transparent, nor cooperative,” highlighting that the city has failed to assist the board in fulfilling its mandated mission. This commentary coincides with the board's preparations to formally investigate a contentious June 10 arrest involving a disabled Black man. Pittinger indicated that the city had not provided necessary information to determine if an investigation was warranted. In response, Mayor Gainey’s press secretary, Olga George, defended the city's commitment to transparency, suggesting that communication challenges could be addressed directly with administration leadership. Additionally, Pittinger noted that access to police body camera footage has been restricted during Gainey’s tenure, impeding the board’s oversight efforts. Political transitions often complicate the board's operations, as new administrations typically start over, lacking continuity in established protocols.