BY CASEY HATFIELD

EUGENE, Ore.--

It's been over a year since Eugene's first police auditor started.  The position was created after an outcry for more police oversight.  So how is it working? 

The auditor believes they are above the police departments average number of complaints.  She says that's a good sign.   It shows people are feeling more comfortable filing complaints.  It was a scandal that shocked the community.  Two Eugene police officers charged with sexual misconduct.  Those two cases led to the creation of the city's first police auditor. 

Cristina Beamud started taking complaints October 1rst.  "Not all complaints demand the same level of attention and or investigation so we divide them into categories," said Beamud.  Beamud has received 35 minor complaints and 5 allegations of misconduct.  Beamud can't talk specifics. 

She expects Eugene to be similar to nationwide trends.  "People will complain about things they consider rude or discourteous attitudes by the police," said Beamud.  Eugene Police Chief Robert Lehner hopes greater transparency helps restore trust.  "As people get to understand what we do and why we do it will give them some confidence in the outcomes that previously they didn't understand as well."   The year hasn't been without some controversy. 

The Eugene Police Union filed a grievance about when Beamud could start taking complaints.  "I think everyone when faced with change has concerns and worries."  She says the issue has been resolved.  Beamud wants to continue to move forward.  A big part of Beamud's job this year was to recruit members of a Civilian Review Board. 

 They will start reviewing complaints in January.  Names of the officers will not be disclosed.  That's part of the agreement with the police union.  Beamud's office is located in downtown Eugene at 8th and Olive.  They did that on purpose.  She says people feel more comfortable making complaints if they don't have to do it at the police department.