ROCHESTER, N.Y. — ​The Rochester Police Accountability Board says it has started an official investigation into the Rochester Police Department's response to last year's protests over the death of Daniel Prude. 

The board made the announcement during Tuesday night's meeting. The board says the investigation will look into the RPD's crowd control policy and its use of force during the protests. 

Board members say RPD Interim Chief Herriott-Sullivan has been informed of the investigation and is communicating clearly and cooperating with the board. 

A city spokeperson released a statement in response to the investigation saying in part:

“The Police Accountability Board was established for the purpose of providing an independent review of police matters and conduct. 

"Any review into such matters are aligned with their purpose and our police department will work with them to ensure they have the information they need.”

Interim Chief Herriott-Sullivan and board members are scheduled to meet on February 11 for an oversight hearing. The interim chief will also present the department's new protest-related policies at that hearing.

Meanwhile, the Rochester Police Department released a statement Wednesday morning saying it supports people's right to peacefully protest and it will maintain its goal of providing public safety. 

The statement says in part:

"As a police department, our primary goal is to maintain public safety, preserve life, and to keep the peace. 

"We ask that anyone wishing to peacefully protest refrain from partaking in or being involved with anyone that acts or commits acts of violence or crimes during any protest or gathering."