This bill proposes several updates to current Arizona statutes regarding law enforcement practices. It introduces new provisions that require peace officers to visibly display identification while performing their duties, with specific exceptions for undercover operations, tactical situations, and exigent circumstances. Additionally, it mandates that agencies adopt written policies prohibiting peace officers from wearing facial coverings that obscure their identity, except under certain conditions. The bill also establishes that peace officers who violate these policies and are found to have committed assault or unlawful imprisonment cannot claim immunity from civil liability and may be liable for damages.
Furthermore, the bill expands the definition of impersonating a public servant to include fraudulent displays of government identification and clarifies that it is not a defense if the pretended office does not exist. It also specifies that impersonating a peace officer is a class 6 felony, with increased penalties if committed during other felonies. The bill aims to enhance accountability and transparency in law enforcement by ensuring that officers are identifiable and adhere to established policies.
Statutes affected: Introduced Version: 13-1203, 13-1303, 13-2406, 13-2411, 13-2415, 13-1208, 13-705, 1-215