Richard Rosenthal: Independent monitor in Denver to head up unit in British Columbia

In May, Joel Warner profiled Richard Rosenthal, Denver's independent monitor -- the man charged with determining if police officers accused of misconduct were given appropriate punishment. Now, however, he's moving his act north -- way north. Today, Rosenthal was publicly announced as the first civilian director for independent investigations of...

By Michael Roberts

December 7, 2011

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In May, Joel Warner profiled Richard Rosenthal, Denver's independent monitor — the man charged with determining if police officers accused of misconduct were given appropriate punishment. Now, however, he's moving his act north — way north.

Today, Rosenthal was publicly announced as the first civilian director for independent investigations of police incidents in British Columbia, Canada.

During his time in Denver, Rosenthal was often under fire from cops and their union over his views — like his claim that an officer who allegedly assaulted a volunteer firefighter had been punished too lightly and his conclusion that Denver cops were getting free rides for DUIs.

His tough reputation obviously preceded him to Canada. After being asked if suggestions that Denver cops would be happy to see him leave, The Globe and Mail quotes him as responding, "It's fair to say I have high expectations. My expectation is that officers will tell the truth."

We've left multiple messages for Rosenthal. When and if he gets back to us, we'll update this post. In the meantime, click to read the feature article "Independent Monitor Richard Rosenthal keeps a close eye on the Denver police."

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

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