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 Columbus Division of Police.
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 and amended through ordinance 2138-2021, which passed on September 21, 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:
• Ensuring officers are able to serve on Federal taskforces without violating the Columbus City Code.
• Ensuring that officers are given exemptions that are needed when working an assignment to a
federal or state law enforcement taskforce with which the Division of Police has a
memorandum of understanding.
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 the 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
WHEREAS, chapter 1912 pertains to the use of warrants by the Columbus Division of Police; and
WHEREAS, Columbus City Council created new chapter 1912 of the Columbus City Codes to limit the use of no-knock warrants, as well as to establish guidelines for the serving of warrants and requiring body-worn cameras for all officers who execute warrants; and
WHEREAS, upon additional feedback from the Division of Police and the Columbus City Attorney’s office, Counci...
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