Crowd gathers as Oakland city council considers police reforms in wake of scandals

OAKLAND, Calif. (KGO) -- On the heels of a sex scandal involving several officers, the city council is deciding Tuesday night on whether to implement some new police reform measures.

An overflow crowd packed Oakland City Hall Tuesday and even spilled out into the rotunda.

Ninety-six speakers signed up to weigh in on police reform and a proposal to create a citizen police commission with the power to investigate and discipline officers.

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Many in favor of this say they've lost faith with the oversight of the current department. Others took the opportunity to express anger and distrust of police.

The Oakland Police Department has been embroiled in several scandals. Some officers were put on leave for their involvement with young prostitute Celeste Guap. Last month, the department went through three police chiefs in 9 days.

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"There's no way any rational person could say we don't need a police commission in this city," said one speaker.

The mother of Alan Blueford got a strong reaction from the crowd. Her teenage son was killed by police in 2012.

"Today, be the examples in the U.S. of coming together, building a strong police commission, supporting the citizen's review board and standing up for our young black lives. Alan Blueford mattered," said Jerralynn Blueford.

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There are those who aren't on board with the idea, like the Oakland Police Officers Association, who argue it would violate a union contract.

The city council is expected to vote next week. If approved, it would go on the November ballot.