The bill S. 719 aims to enhance the rights of individuals detained by law enforcement in South Carolina by adding a new section, 17-13-55, to the South Carolina Code of Laws. This section mandates that law enforcement officers, upon detaining a person based on reasonable suspicion of violating state laws, must activate their audio and video recording equipment. Additionally, officers are required to inform the detained individual of their detention status, the reason for the detention, and when they are free to leave.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that any statements obtained from a detained person by law enforcement officers who do not comply with these requirements will be deemed inadmissible in court prior to an arrest. This legislation is designed to ensure transparency and protect the rights of detained individuals, reinforcing accountability within law enforcement practices. The bill will take effect upon receiving approval from the Governor.

Statutes affected:
12/10/2025: 17-13-55
Latest Version: 17-13-55