New Law Enhances Police Accountability in California

Governor Gavin Newsom signed a significant bill this Monday that empowers police inspector generals with the ability to investigate misconduct and gain access to confidential law enforcement personnel records. Advocates for the changes argue that this will heighten accountability for officers who violate regulations.

For months, advocates from Los Angeles County and members of the County Sheriff’s Civilian Oversight Board have campaigned for this legislation, known as AB847. This move is a direct response to attempts by sheriff’s departments in L.A. and other regions to restrict access to sensitive records.

Set to take effect on January 1, the new law aims to provide peace officers and custody personnel with access to confidential records related to the provisions of the bill.

Hans Johnson, chair of LA County’s Civilian Oversight Board, expressed relief at the development, describing it as a necessary change. “I’m delighted because this has been a long journey,” he said. “Tonight marks a moment of vindication.”

The Sheriff’s Department noted in a statement that the passage of AB 847 addresses a longstanding legal concern that has been contentious since the establishment of the Civil Oversight Committee (COC). The department indicated it will collaborate with county counsel, labor groups, and the COC during the implementation of this new law.

However, the law has drawn criticism from some law enforcement unions and advocacy organizations. Steve Johnson, the president of the LA County Professional Peace Officers Association, expressed mixed feelings in an email, suggesting that while he understands the intent to enhance oversight, there are serious concerns about the potential consequences of access to sensitive records. “If these records aren’t handled with precision and accountability, it could lead to significant risks. Transparency shouldn’t compromise personal safety or public trust.”

Newsom’s office did not immediately respond to inquiries regarding the law.

Johnson emphasized the importance of this bill to families affected by police actions, referencing individuals like Joseph Perez and Emmett Block, who suffered at the hands of LA County Sheriff’s deputies in 2020 and 2023, respectively. He also mentioned Andres Guardo, who was shot by deputies in 2023, alongside others whose cases prompted the need for deeper investigations into sheriff interactions.

Vanessa Perez, the mother of Joseph, described the signing of the law as a significant victory, not only for her son but for all those whose lives have been impacted by the Sheriff’s Department. She anticipates that the new law will allow the oversight board to review records that were previously inaccessible regarding the officers involved in her son’s case.

While the public cannot directly access these records—given the law mandates that the oversight board keep them confidential—they are granted the authority to conduct closed sessions to scrutinize the information. Despite this limitation, Perez remains hopeful that AB 847 will enhance the opportunity for greater transparency in her son’s situation.

Robert Bonner, a former federal judge and ex-chairman of L.A. County’s Civilian Board of Supervisors, welcomed the bill’s passage. He labeled it as crucial for ensuring accountability for excessive use of force against civilians, stating, “This is a big deal. It’s a substantial advancement for civilian oversight boards.”