Departure of Commissioner John F. Timoney

After The Inquirer revealed that the Philadelphia Police Department did not fully and completely investigate sex crimes, Commissioner John F. Timoney reinvestigated cases for the previous five years.

Though he indicated at the time that he did not expect to find that many rapes had been misclassified, the investigation showed that 681 first-degree felony rapes had been. Timoney not only admitted the error, but took an unprecedented step and invited advocacy groups to review case files in an effort to regain public confidence in the unit.

Although the Special Victims Unit personnel might not have initially welcomed our involvement, after two years of reviewing cases, we have established a good working relationship with them. We have learned a great deal about the complexity of their work and they have recognized that the advocates may see things they have missed.

Timoney has approved the development of a comprehensive protocol and a specialized training program for the Special Victims Unit. Additional personnel have been added. Advocates monitor ongoing coding and resolution of complaints and have provided input into the department's upgrading of its 911 system.

Our partnership has also resulted in the scheduled relocation of the Special Victims Unit next spring to an appropriate facility on the Episcopal Hospital campus. Discussions are taking place to have a center in which police, child welfare workers and the district attorney can interview child victims at one time and place.

Timoney's leadership, his willingness to face up to a scandal, and his innovative and courageous approach in working with the advocacy community to regain public confidence has led to substantial improvements in police response to sex crimes. The work is far from complete, but the foundation of a true partnership has been built, and for that we thank the commissioner.

Carol Tracy
Executive Director
Terry Fromson
Managing Attorney
Women's Law Project
Philadelphia