police transparency

Ohio Governor Signs Bill Charging Public for Police Videos

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed H.B. 315 into law, a bill allowing law enforcement agencies to charge up to $750 for processing video footage requests, raising concerns about public access to crucial information. While DeWine claims the fees are optional and intended to offset costs, critics argue this hinders transparency, particularly regarding police misconduct. The governor also vetoed provisions within the bill that would have loosened medical professional ethics standards and exempted some public officials from existing ethics requirements. Finally, other bills addressing consumer protection and establishing new commissions were signed into law.

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Illinois woman who called police over possible intruder killed by deputies, attorney says

This tragic incident in Illinois where a woman called the police over a possible intruder and ended up being killed by deputies is absolutely heart-wrenching. It is unfathomable to think that seeking help from law enforcement could result in such a devastating outcome. The passive voice used in the sheriff’s office statement, where they fail to mention who fired the shots that killed her, is deeply concerning.

The fact that the body camera footage and other information are being withheld to “protect the integrity of the legal process” is alarming. This lack of transparency only adds to the suspicion surrounding the actions of the deputies involved.… Continue reading