Some California lawmakers would like to change the rules of engagement regarding the use of deadly force involving peace or police officers. Last summer, The Law Office of Ronald G. Brower shed some light on California Assembly Bill 931. The legislation would have made changes as to when law enforcement could resort to lethal force. After severe push-back from police groups, AB 931 was shelved for a later date.

While most Americans can agree that utilizing deadly force should only occur when necessary, there will probably always be a debate about when it is warranted. Because, at the end of the day citizens, and those who keep the peace, should both be afforded the right to safety.

Even though AB 931 was set aside, civil rights advocates and law enforcement lobbyists, along with legislative aides, are working on what new “use of deadly force” legislation should entail, CALMatters reports. It is likely that a new version of the bill will be forthcoming in the very near future.

Reducing Police Shootings In California

Assemblymembers Shirley Weber and Kevin McCarty are the architects behind legislation to reduce police shootings in California. Civil rights activists are looking out for the interests of the mostly black and brown communities, that are most often affected by police officers exercising the use of deadly force. On the other side of the debate are the law enforcement associations, which feel that changing deadly force rules will put peace officers’ lives in jeopardy.

“Our law is way too permissive. It gives very broad discretion to use force to kill people regardless of what other options (an officer) had,” said Lizzie Buchen, a lobbyist for the American Civil Liberties Union. “There’s a pretty overwhelming perception by the public that police operate with impunity and that they can kill people without being held accountable.”

“Ninety-nine percent of the time officers are reacting to the way someone is approaching them. To sit here and say if I roll up on a scene that I have to use a Taser, a night stick, and go hands-on before I can use deadly force, you’re jeopardizing public safety,” said Brian Marvel, president of the Peace Officers Research Association of California. “We have all these tools on our belt and depending on what we’re facing and how violent the person is toward us will determine what force we use.”

Please take a moment to watch a short video on the subject:

Orange County Criminal Defense

Having the right legal representation can make all the difference, if you are facing criminal charges. Please contact The Law Office of Ronald G. Brower to learn how we can help you achieve a favorable outcome with your case. Attorney Brower has decades of experience making him the ideal candidate to advocate for your family.