To some Seattle may seem to be on the cutting edge, and yet to others Seattle may seem to be over the top. Well … last month our City Council signed into law something that some may very well say is cutting edge, while others may claim is simply – over the top.
On May 22, 2017, the Seattle City Council codified the rights of the public to observe, record and/or criticize police activity so long as the observer/ recorder does not: (1) hinder, delay or compromise the officer in his duty, (2) threaten someone’s safety or (3) incite others to commit violence. Generally, most correctly presume the right to record police activity is protected under the First Amendment. The City has ubiquitously taken it a step further, however, and codified it into City law.
The new City ordinance makes it crystal clear that no officer may use physical force to retaliate against a lawful observer/ recorder. Any claim for such act may result in not only monetary damages, but also requires that the chief of police and police accountability officials be notified of the act. Was such an enactment necessary? In all reality, it is probably more form than it is substance, but certainly it sends a clear message to City officers – they are being watched; in as much, it can be said that Big Brother is now the people, not the government.
If you or a loved one is cited or charged with a law violation, you should immediately seek the advice and/or assistance of a qualified Seattle criminal defense attorney. The Seattle Criminal Defense Attorneys that make up the criminal defense team of SQ Attorneys are highly qualified and reputable Seattle criminal defense lawyers that are dedicated to providing top notch, aggressive representation for those arrested or charged for crime all across Western Washington and the Greater Puget Sound region. The team creates success by working with law enforcement and the prosecuting attorney’s office to ensure that all facts and circumstances related to the allegations are considered in creating the fairest, most equitable and just resolution possible in light of all the surrounding circumstances of the given case. So, whether you are cited with an infraction or arrested and/or charged with misdemeanor, gross misdemeanor or a felony, protect yourself … call SQ Attorneys at (206) 441-0900.
