The study begins with a discussion of the terminology peculiar to the civilian review system and then reviews the trends and events that will shape this issue for the next 15 years. The study used a literature review, interviews with appropriate persons, trend and event evaluations, cross-impact analysis, and scenario development to project trends in the use of civilian review boards. A questionnaire surveyed 100 police and knowledgeable civilians on the current and future use of such boards. A most-likely scenario projects the gradual 'professionalization' of the civilian review movement. Based upon this scenario, a strategic plan was developed using situational and resource analyses as well as a 'stakeholder' evaluation. Within the context of a broader law enforcement mission statement, a 'preferred strategy' calls for the creation of a new statewide commission for the handling of major complaints of police misconduct. Routine complaints of officer misconduct would remain the investigative responsibility of the involved agency. The study concludes with a description of the transition planning phase required to implement the proposed system. Appended questionnaire and methodological details, 7 references, 23-item bibliography. (Author abstract modified)