Seven former members of Geneva’s Police Review Board filed a motion today to appeal state Supreme Court Judge Craig Doran’s ruling that invalidated Local Law 1-2021, which created the PRB.
The former members of the PRB are seeking to intervene in the case “to defend the very validity of the law, preserve their existence as a board, and vindicate their rights to carry out the functions of Local Law 1-2021,” according to the motion filed on May 10.
Related: Judge sides with police union, strikes down Geneva Police Review Board
Related: Geneva City Council votes not to appeal judge’s decision to strike down Police Review Board
Former PRB members retain pro bono representation from local attorneys
The following former PRB members have obtained pro bono legal representation from local attorneys Andrew Sping and Greg Silverman: Former PRB Chair Jessica Farrell, former PRB Vice Chair Theresa Johnson along with former PRB members Carrie Corron, Amaris Elliott-Engel, Charles King, Ahmad Whitfield and Wil Wolf.
In their press release, former PRB members said they are filing an appeal “to defend the very validity of the law, preserve their existence as a board, and vindicate their rights to carry out the functions of Local Law 1-2021.” They also emphasized the appeal “will not result in any costs or inconveniences for the city.”
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What’s happened so far
Judge Doran ruled the PRB invalid in early April. Geneva City Council and Mayor Steve Valentino voted 5-4 not to appeal the judge’s decision at an April 20 meeting. Last week, Ward 4 Councilor Ken Camera brought forth a resolution to create a Police Accountability Committee, which was shot down 8-1. Some councilors who voted not to appeal Doran’s decision have stated their support for the PRB being put to a citywide referendum.
Related: INSIDE THE FLX: Former Geneva Police Review Board chair Jess Farrell on Justice Doran’s ruling and what’s next (podcast)
Looking ahead
In their press release, the former members of the PRB said they are “confident that the judge will uphold their standing in the case and grant their motion to intervene and appeal.” They also cited a similar civilian review board in the city of Syracuse.
The case will likely be heard by the state Supreme Court’s Appellate Division in the coming weeks.
Related: Geneva City Council to consider alternative to invalidated Police Review Board
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