Johns Hopkins Seeks Applicants for Police Accountability Board

Johns Hopkins University is inviting applications for its Police Accountability Board, an essential group responsible for guiding the development and operations of the Johns Hopkins Police Department (JHPD). This initiative marks a significant step as the JHPD transitions from implementation to full operational status. Interested candidates must submit their applications by October 24, 2023, through the university’s Public Safety website.

Currently, there are eight vacancies on the board due to the conclusion of previous terms. The available positions include two for staff, four for students, one for faculty, and one appointed by the president of the Baltimore City Council. Detailed information about the application process is available on the Public Safety website.

Established in 2019 under the Community Safety and Strengthening Act, which authorized the JHPD, the 15-member Police Accountability Board has several critical responsibilities. These include collecting community feedback for JHPD leadership, analyzing crime metrics, and reviewing departmental policies and training to recommend enhancements.

Composition and Responsibilities of the Board

The board consists of five community members who are not affiliated with Johns Hopkins, alongside ten representatives from the university’s student, faculty, and staff body. Representatives from the university are drawn from JHPD’s three operational campuses: East Baltimore, Homewood, and Peabody. At least one representative must be from the Johns Hopkins Black Faculty and Staff Association.

Community members are selected to reflect the neighborhoods where JHPD may patrol, ensuring that the board has a diverse and comprehensive perspective. Those interested in serving on the board should be aware that non-student members must demonstrate strong ties to the Baltimore community, either through residency or active involvement. They are required to commit to a two-year term from June 1, 2026, to May 31, 2028. In contrast, student members will serve a one-year term from June 1, 2026, to May 31, 2027, and must be enrolled at one of the JHU campuses at the time of their selection.

The board’s formation is crucial in ensuring that the JHPD fulfills its commitment to being the most progressive and accountable university police department in the United States. The board convenes at least quarterly and holds a minimum of one public meeting each year to gather input from community members. Minutes from these meetings are accessible to the public through an online platform.

A nominating committee, comprised of Baltimore City residents, students, faculty, and staff, will review applications and recommend candidates for consideration by university leadership. The announcement of nominees is scheduled for November 2023, with final recommendations submitted to the Maryland State Senate for approval during the legislative session in January 2026.

The establishment of this board plays an essential role in fostering community trust and ensuring that the JHPD operates effectively and transparently. As applications open, Johns Hopkins University encourages those who meet the criteria to apply and contribute to shaping the future of policing within the university community.