Our criminal justice system is meant to be impartial and absent of bias or conflicts of interest. When a police-involved death occurs, even the perception of a conflict of interest in the investigation can undermine public confidence in the outcome. In recent years, the tragic deaths of Antwon Rose, George Floyd, and others have intensified calls for greater transparency and independence in the review of police use-of-force incidents.
 
To address these concerns, we plan to introduce a companion bill to Senate Bill 1047. This legislation would require an independent investigation whenever a police officer uses deadly force resulting in death. Following the investigation, a district attorney would retain the authority to prosecute the case, present the matter to a grand jury, or refer it to the Pennsylvania Attorney General for prosecutorial review.
 
This legislation seeks to strengthen public trust in the criminal justice system by ensuring that investigations of police-involved deaths are conducted independently and free from potential conflicts of interest. As confidence in public institutions continues to face challenges, it is the responsibility of the General Assembly to promote transparency, accountability, and equal justice under the law.
 
Please join us in sponsoring this important legislation to help reinforce public confidence in the integrity of Pennsylvania’s criminal justice system.