The bill establishes the Office of Inspector General for Prosecutorial Review within the Department of Law and Public Safety, ensuring its independence from departmental control. The Inspector General (IG) will be appointed by the Governor with Senate approval and must have experience as both a prosecutor and a criminal defense attorney. The IG's primary responsibility is to investigate allegations of misconduct involving prosecutors and members of prosecution teams, including detectives. The bill outlines the IG's authority to receive and investigate complaints, conduct evaluations, and initiate independent investigations. It also mandates that the IG adhere to national and professional standards during investigations and provides a confidential process for the public and government employees to submit complaints.
Additionally, the bill grants the IG the power to compel testimony and documents through subpoenas, while prohibiting prosecutors under investigation from using privilege to withhold information if the related prosecution has concluded. The IG is authorized to collaborate with other state oversight entities and can refer cases involving potential criminal conduct to appropriate authorities. The bill requires the IG to maintain records of investigations and outcomes, meet regularly with other oversight bodies to coordinate efforts, and submit public reports on findings and recommendations after each investigation.