Bill That Bars Release Of Officers Involved In Shooting Investigations Passes State House
PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – A bill barring the disclosure of the names of officers under investigation for excessive use of force is gaining ground in the state legislature, but it's also sparking controversy.
The bill to protect the names of officers involved in shootings or excessive uses of force has overwhelmingly passed the state house with support from both parties and law enforcement officials like Allegheny County Sheriff Bill Mullen.
"I think for the security of the officers involved and their families, I think it's best not to reveal who they are until they are going to be indicted or charged," Mullen said. "I strongly believe that."
The legislation has gained support over the objections of civil liberty groups, some media and Beth Pittenger, the director of the Pittsburgh Police Civilian Review Board.
"This kind of legislation reinforces a double standard that's already perceived by many in the public," she said.
While Pittenger says officers and their families should not be forced to live in fear of retribution, she says there have been few, if any, tangible threats against officers in Pennsylvania excessive force cases, and she says the public interest for transparency overrides those concerns.
"And at this time, with the tensions between the community and the police officers across the country, let alone here locally, it nurtures the public skepticism," she said.
But Mullen says the safety concerns are real.
"You know, there's gang members who have threatened to kill cops," he said. "I don't think there's any reason why the names should be released just to pacify some people in the public."
The bill on protecting officers' identities will still need to pass the senate before it goes to the governor's desk, but in the meantime, the debate on it will be vigorous.
Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter
