Transparency in Police Conduct Laws Now in Effect in California

Two new laws going into effect in 2019 intend to provide more transparency into police activity here in Los Angeles and throughout California. The first law, which went into effect on January 1, makes certain police incidents – including shootings and assaults – public record.

The other law, going into effect in July, will provide access to police audio and video recordings related to officer use of deadly force.

Senate Bill 1421

SB 1421, which went into effect on the first of the year, requires agencies to make police department records available under the California Public Records Act (CPRA). These records can include:

• Incidents involving the discharge of a firearm at a person by a police officer or custodial officer
• Incidents in which the use of force by a police officer or custodial officer against a person resulted in death, or in great bodily injury
• Sexual assault by a police officer involving a member of the public
• Dishonesty by a police officer directly relating to their duties

There are some restrictions on the public disclosure of these records – including preserving anonymity of complainants or witnesses, personal data, or other information that might constitute an invasion of privacy that outweighs public interest.

Assembly Bill 748

AB 748 goes into effect July 1, 2019. This bill addresses audio and video footage, including body cameras, in incidents involving either the discharge of a firearm at a person by a police officer, or incidents involving the use of deadly force. This law will require these recordings to be made public under CPRA.

Before AB 748 was passed, these types of recordings were exempt from any CPRA requests when disclosure could endanger the safety of a person, or hinder an investigation. The new law allows authorities to delay release if disclosure would interfere with active investigations, or redact information to protect the privacy of people involved.

Recently, the California Supreme Court rejected a challenge from the San Bernardino sheriff’s deputies union that the new laws should only apply to incidents in 2019 and forward. The laws’ author, Democratic state Sen. Nancy Skinner of Berkeley, said, “Good policing requires community trust, and one way to build that trust is transparency.”

If you’ve been injured or mistreated due to police misconduct, talk to the attorneys at Taylor & Ring. We work to hold the right people accountable and seek justice on your behalf. Call our Los Angeles injury lawyers today at 310.776.6390 or complete our contact form to schedule a consultation.

Taylor & Ring offers comprehensive counsel to clients throughout California, and has the means to travel to meet with clients far outside the Greater Los Angeles Metro Area. To learn more about our services, please contact our lawyers serving:

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