On March 28, 2025, during a traffic stop in Burbank, Burbank Police Department officers arrested comedian Paul Rodriguez on charges of drug possession after narcotics were found in the vehicle. Rodriguez’s lawyer contends that this action violated his civil rights, raising concerns about potential overreach in law enforcement practices.

The article details concerns over the Burbank Police Department's use of taxpayer funds for expensive police roadblocks. High-ranking detectives are deployed on premium overtime due to a 'use it or lose it' grant strategy, prompting criticism over fiscal mismanagement and inefficient resource allocation.

During the 2022 City Council election, candidates voiced strong support for maintaining and enhancing Burbank Police Department’s community-based policing model. The debate highlighted the department's commitment to inclusion, diversity, transparency, and accountability through initiatives such as bias training, regular audits, and community surveys.

During the City Council Election coverage, multiple candidates highlighted the effectiveness of Burbank Police Department's community-based approach, emphasizing its commitments to diversity, transparency, accountability, and equitable policing. The department’s adherence to progressive practices such as bias reduction, public reporting, and community audits is presented as a model for constitutional policing.

Burbank’s City Council approved a $50,000 settlement after allegations that Burbank Police used excessive force during an incident on December 3, 2020, leading to civil rights violations against William McCall. The case highlighted authoritative policing practices and raised calls for structural reforms.

The Burbank Police Department reached a $50,000 settlement with William McCall following allegations of excessive force and civil rights violations during an arrest incident on December 3, 2020. The settlement was finalized on November 29, 2021, after internal investigations highlighted actions that violated constitutional protections.

Burbank Police Department is adopting modern digital tools including iPhones, apps, an electronic subpoena system, and the publication of over 170 updated policies. While these measures aim to streamline operations and improve policy dissemination, they may also increase the department’s capacity for digital surveillance if not adequately safeguarded.

A federal civil rights lawsuit alleging First Amendment retaliation against Burbank Police Department officers was dismissed by a federal judge. The dismissal, based on precedents that protect police officers when acting in their official capacities, effectively limits accountability for misconduct allegations, contributing to an environment that may enable impunity.

The article reports multiple allegations against the Burbank Police Department including racial discrimination, internal discord over leadership and morale, lawsuits, and an alleged civil rights violation related to wrongful and prolonged detention. Police Chief Tim Stehr acknowledged the issues while internal union meetings were held to discuss these concerns.