Review board finds OPA investigation sufficient in DUI stop but flags potential conflict of interest

The board reviewed case CC2025‑006, concerning an incident on Jan. 30, 2025, that resulted in a state citation for driving under the influence. The complainant alleged he was not afforded medical attention until after a blood draw and that he had withdrawn consent. OPA's sequential review found the allegation unfounded, and NCRB agreed with that finding.

NCRB included recommendations to improve transparency in investigations when potential conflicts of interest appear. The report noted that the Fraternal Order of Police attorney who represented the officer (identified in the report as Jack Byrd II, Esquire) is the father of the person involved in the incident (Jack Byrd III), and said "the relationship...presented a potential ethical conflict that should have been disclosed and documented in the OPA investigation for the record." The board recorded a recusal on the item and approved the recommendations by voice vote.

Presenters recommended that OPA, when it identifies an appearance of a potential conflict, suggest parties recuse themselves to preserve impartiality and public trust. The board agreed and voted to adopt the report and recommendations.