A new Florida law, effective July 1st, has severely curtailed the operations of civilian review boards overseeing law enforcement misconduct investigations. The law mandates law enforcement-led investigations, restricts civilian board oversight, and requires at least one retired law enforcement officer on each panel. This has led to the dissolution or suspension of at least 15 boards across the state, despite arguments that such boards build community trust and improve police-community relations. Supporters of the law contend it ensures consistency in investigations and avoids discouraging police applicants. However, critics argue the law undermines accountability and damages community trust.
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Governor DeSantis’ recent decision to sign a bill banning civilian boards from investigating police misconduct in Florida is a blatant disregard for the rights of citizens to hold their government accountable. The bill strips these oversight boards of their power, instead allowing local police chiefs to create their own “civilian oversight” boards, cherry-picked by the very entities they are meant to oversee.
The rationale provided by Governor DeSantis, suggesting that civilian review boards may have hidden agendas, is both absurd and disingenuous. By removing the ability for independent oversight of police conduct, the door is left wide open for potential abuse of power and lack of accountability within law enforcement.… Continue reading
As I read about the former funeral home owner who was arrested after a corpse lay in a hearse for 2 years, my initial reaction was shock and disbelief. How could someone let such a horrifying situation unfold? The fact that the woman’s body was left unattended for such a long period of time is beyond comprehension. It raises serious questions about the lack of regulation in the funeral home industry, particularly in Colorado where this incident took place.
The discovery of 35 cremated remains hoarded around the property only adds to the macabre nature of this case. It boggles the mind to think about the conditions in which these bodies were left, and the lack of respect shown to them and their families.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker