Explanation
The purpose of this ordinance is to amend Chapter 1912 of the Columbus City Codes, pertaining to the use of search warrants by the Division of Police.
Following the death of Breonna Taylor in Louisville, Kentucky, cities across the country, including in the state of Ohio, are reconsidering how law enforcement executes search warrants, especially no-knock warrants. Evidence suggests that no-knock warrants increase the safety risk to both civilians and law enforcement, as hundreds have been injured or killed in the U.S. in the last several years during the execution of these warrants.
In the interest of promoting public safety and accountability, City Council amended Title 19 of the Columbus City Codes to include new Chapter 1912, pertaining to search warrants. This was done through Ordinance 1808-2020, which passed on July 27, 2020. Upon additional feedback from the Division of Police and the Columbus City Attorney’s office, Council now proposes to amend Chapter 1912 to reflect operational necessities and concerns for the Police. These include:
• Keeping consistent language and terms throughout the code chapter
• Allowing police the various methods necessary to make contact at locations where they are executing search warrants (e.g. knocking, verbal announcements, acoustic devices)
• Ensuring that any enforcement actions by police during the execution of search warrants are recorded by body-worn cameras
EMERGENCY DESIGNATION: Emergency action is requested in order to ensure that the Division of Police has appropriate standards set as soon as possible for the execution of no-knock, and other warrants, to protect public safety and welfare of residents.
Title
To amend chapter 1912 of the Columbus City Codes, establishing standards for the use of warrants by the Columbus Division of Police; to repeal existing chapter 1912; and to declare an emergency.
Body
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