Madison’s Independent Police Monitor resigns after slow, rocky start to the office’s work

MADISON, Wis. (WMDX) – Madison’s Independent Police Monitor, an office that’s struggled to get its work off the ground, has resigned. 

The Police Civilian Oversight Board and the Independent Police Monitor position were created in 2020 after years of discussion. They were designed to provide civilian oversight to the police department, and handle complaints. 

After over a year and a half without any staff, Robin Copley was finally chosen as the Independent Police Monitor in December 2022. Another candidate had been appointed to the position, but resigned, slowing down the process. 

Since then, Copley hired two employees. She’d also gone on medical leave, which further stalled the office’s work. 

Last year during the budget process, city finance leaders and elected officials questioned the office’s success since Copley got the job. It took about two years for Copley’s office to produce a complaint form for residents who have grievances against the police department. Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway even proposed axing the effort entirely.

After a meeting of the Police Civilian Oversight Board, Copley resigned. Her last day on the job was Oct. 3, but she’ll stay on the city’s payroll for another month. She wrote a resignation letter citing severe health issues. 

Now, the board will find an interim monitor as it searches for a permanent replacement.