The Powers and Duties of State and Local Inspectors General

• In Event: Police Organization: Police Practice and Reform

Abstract

Inspectors General (IGs) are the independent government watchdogs tasked with fighting corruption, promoting efficiency and effectiveness, and ensuring transparency in government. To fulfill their mission, IGs have access to records, subpoena, and police powers for their activities. The author finds that only 37% out of 123 IGs have both access to records and subpoena power while the rest have only one or none. Continuing this research, the author statistically tests the IGs’ powers to their closed activities (audits, investigations, evaluations) in 2023. The author recommends amendments to inspector general statutes and annual reporting details to promote transparency and public integrity.

Author

• Frank Chen, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, CUNY