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, must activate their audio and video recording equipment and provide the detained individual with specific information. The required information includes notifying the person that they are being detained, the reason for the detention, and when they are free to leave.

Additionally, the bill stipulates that any statements obtained from a detained individual by a law enforcement officer who fails to provide the required information will be deemed inadmissible in court prior to an arrest. This legislation is designed to ensure transparency and protect the rights of detained persons, reinforcing the accountability of law enforcement practices in South Carolina. The bill will take effect upon approval by the Governor.

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