The bill SB1074 proposes significant changes to the rights of victims of peace officer violence and their families. It grants these victims and their families a comprehensive set of rights, including the right to be treated with fairness, respect, and dignity; free access to legal and community support; the ability to delay or refuse interviews without fear of intimidation; and access to information and materials relevant to the victim's injury or death. The bill also mandates that investigative materials refer to individuals who experience police violence as victims rather than suspects and prohibits the release of false or misleading information about critical incidents.
Furthermore, the bill requires the permanent removal of any peace officer involved in a shooting or in-custody death from law enforcement roles and the withholding of their pension. It also establishes the need for an independent nonprofit legal and advocacy organization, funded by the state, to provide legal counsel and healing support services to victims and their families. The bill defines critical incidents, victims, and victims' families, and sets forth requirements for immediate family notification, access to investigative files, and participation in policy changes and reform efforts. The bill aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and support for victims of peace officer violence.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 13-4444