MILPA hiring outside organization to review policies and procedures

MILPA said at a press conference on Monday that it will be hiring an outside organization to review its policies and procedures. The organization will also give recommendations for changes that may be necessary.

The review comes after a controversial video showing MILPA leader Israel Villa flashing what appears to be a gang sign used by the Salinas East Marqueta in a group chat with inmates at the Monterey County Jail. Villa has been placed on leave.

Organizations such as the California Endowment and the Action Council of Monterey County have shown support for the nonprofit since the video was released, pointing out what MILPA has done in the Salinas Valley community.

The video prompted criticism from others. The Salinas Police Officers Association demanded that the city take action and cut ties with MILPA, which is a member of the Community Alliance for Safety and Peace.

The executive director of MILPA, Juan Gomez, said the experiences of staff members are what help them work to build community safety and reduce violence and thanked partners who have come out to support the non-profit.

“Community building and healing is difficult work,” Gomez said. “And we have taken on this challenge because we have seen the power of personal and community transformation.”