Police Auditor Releases 2025 Annual Report

Internal Affairs complaint investigations increased 71% compared to 2024, driven largely by complaints from non-APD employees. While some investigations are still open, 18% of closed cases resulted in at least one sustained allegation. This is lower than the 35% sustained rate reported in 2024. 

The report also found a 51% increase in lower-level uses of force, such as control holds and takedowns. At the same time, incidents involving only the display of a firearm or Taser, without any additional use of force, decreased by 75%. This decline is likely related to a policy change made in response to a ruling by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit. Intermediate-level force incidents—hand or knee strikes and Taser deployments— remained relatively stable, increasing from seven to eight incidents. Police activity increased in several areas. Felony arrests rose 56%, while misdemeanor arrests increased 28% compared to 2024. Calls for service increased slightly by 1%. 1%. Police stops increased by 80%, driven largely by an 89% increase in traffic stops—from 3,925 in 2024 to 7,435 in 2025. Most traffic stops were for moving violations. 

Department staffing has remained stable over the past three years. As of December 31, APD employed 66 sworn personnel and 33 professional staff members. Sworn staffing is currently frozen at 72 positions. 

The City of Alameda Police Auditor works independently and collaboratively to promote community confidence in policing and accountability. Working within the City Attorney’s Office, the Auditor reviews APD internal affairs cases and use of force incidents to ensure quality investigations. Download the full Police Auditor’s Annual Report here. The Police Auditor’s monthly reports and inspections can be found here.