MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) — There was a lot of debate at a public hearing Wednesday in one Senate committee. It’s all about a bill that would make law enforcement immune from lawsuits in some instances. Supporters of the bill said they want to back the blue, while those opposed said it’s dangerous.
“I like for the officers, the deputies, to get out and talk to the community like they’re family,” said Clarke County Sheriff DeWayne Smith. “I believe it’s a family relationship, and we need to all get along together on that.
Smith said that relationship elevates public safety. When it comes to protecting the public, Smith said police need immunity, but not without accountability.
“If they do something wrong, let’s hold them accountable,” he explained. “But, if they’re not doing something wrong, let’s don’t tie them up with stuff they don’t need to be tied up with. And how do they determine that? Through the courts. It’s just like anybody else.”
That’s why former Huntsville Police Chief and Rep. Rex Reynolds (R-Huntsville) brought his bill before a Senate committee today. It gives blanket immunity to police officers in lawsuits, unless they violate someone’s rights.
But, Sen. Rodger Smitherman (D-Birmingham) said police could abuse that immunity.
“This is a green light for black folks to get killed, and it’s gonna be done under the name of immunity,” he said. “And that’s unconscionable to think about where you’re going to put our people in this state.”
Law enforcement would also be entitled to a pre-trial hearing if they are prosecuted after using force. In the meeting, Senators heard from attendees- some for, and some against the bill.
“We do not want to create more situations where more boots go on the necks of more George Floyds,” said Gita Smith, opposing the bill.
“This does not protect unconstitutional acts,” said Hoss Mack with the Alabama Sheriff’s Association. “This bill will provide due process of law for law enforcement.”
Rep. Reynolds said that due process is needed.
“I worry about that split second decision they’ve gotta go through,” he said. “And what if they hesitate? And what if they are killed?”
The Senate Judiciary Committee will vote on the bill when they meet again next week. If it passes, it will head to the Senate floor.
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