Online: | |
Visits: | |
Stories: |
Story Views | |
Now: | |
Last Hour: | |
Last 24 Hours: | |
Total: |
Fear of mob rule causes governor to veto protective measure
Arizona Gov. Doug Ducey vetoed legislation Monday aimed at protecting police officers and their families from harassment or worse. Senate Bill 1445, was a reasonable piece of legislation designed to delay law enforcement agencies from releasing the names of officers involved in serious or fatal shootings for 60 days as the investigation into the case proceeded.
Ferguson, Missouri police officer Darren Wilson was subjected to death threats and forced into hiding, ultimately resigning from the police force following his acquittal on charges relating to the shooting of Michael Brown. The small town became a hotbed of prolonged violent protests based on the “Hands up, don’t shoot” myth.
Critics of the delay, referred to the measure as “hiding” the officers identities, include the dynamic duo of the Arizona Republic and the American Civil Liberties Union of Arizona, which both sent letters to the governor requesting his veto of the measure. This is the editorial view from the hard-left New York Times, which also urged a veto.
Ducey complied, folding like a cheap suit.
The bill allowed the officer’s name to be released if he or she was arrested or formally charged, or gave consent. Supporters of the law contended it would protect officers without compromising the public’s right to know the facts of a case, noting that information about the officer, including any disciplinary record, would, in fact, be released.
The legislation enjoyed bi-partisan support, passing the House by a vote of 44 – 12 and the Senate 23 – 6.
Primary and co-sponsors of the bill can be viewed here. They deserve our thanks. Ducey? He needs to be reminded which side law enforcement is on. They put their lives on the line each and every day to protect the people of Arizona.
Including Doug Ducey.