SAN DIEGO — A community activist has filed two complaints with the California Department of Justice against the San Diego Police Department and Chief David Nisleit alleging misconduct within the department.
"Today we are calling for an external entity to initiate an investigation into corruption within the San Diego Police Department's Internal Affairs Unit," said Tasha Williamson during a news conference Monday morning.
The complaints were dated November 19.
Williamson stood alongside Yusef Miller, Executive Director of the North County Equity Justice Coalition and Genevieve Jones-Wright, Executive Director of Community Advocates for Just and Moral Governance. Jones-Wright also previously ran for San Diego District Attorney.
"I think that seen enough, we have heard enough, and we cannot continue to ask for community members to continue to put their trust in folks that don't deserve it," said Jones-Wright.
The complaints filed by Williamson come on the heels of a lawsuit announced last month by current SDPD Captain Alberto Leos. He filed a civil rights complaint with the state, accusing the department of corruption, discrimination, and retaliation.
He alleged he was ordered to alter traffic reports involving fellow officers, including one that involved Chief Nisleit's son, who is also a police officer. According to attorneys for Captain Leos, the crash took place in April 2020 and a civilian was injured.
Williamson said the allegations that came to light by Captain Leos need to be looked at by the California Department of Justice. According to one of the complaints she filed, she alleges a captain in charge of the Internal Affairs Unit was reassigned for not going along with what the police chief wanted.
"The significance of the internal affairs unit in holding officers accountable cannot be overstated," said Williamson. "Unfortunately, we believe the critical institution has been compromised."
For years, Williamson has been very vocal about her criticism of the department. She often posts about it on social media.
CBS 8 reached out to SDPD for comment on the complaints. So far, there has been no comment.
Jared Wilson, President of the San Diego Police Officer's Association sent CBS 8 the following statement:
"Over the years, Tasha Williamson has made numerous false allegations about SDPD officers and employees. Based on past allegations, her claims are not credible and the SDPOA will be reviewing this for libel and legal action."
Last week, Chief Nisleit announced he would be retiring. The department has now opened up a search both inside and outside SDPD for his replacement.