Explanation
BACKGROUND
The purpose of this ordinance is to enact new Chapters 1914 and 1915, pertaining to the use of body-worn cameras and establishing requirements for the rendering of aid by Columbus Division of Police officers.
Early on the morning of December 22, 2020, Andre Hill, a Black Columbus resident, was shot by a Columbus police officer who had not activated a body-worn camera to record the incident. In the minutes that followed, neither the police officer that fired on Mr. Hill nor his partner rendered any medical aid to Mr. Hill. Several minutes passed before emergency medical services were even requested. Andre Hill died at the hospital over a half hour following the shooting.
Given these events, it is imperative to strengthen rules surrounding the use of body-worn cameras and requirements to render aid; not only in policy, but also in law. So Council is proposing the following changes to the Columbus City Codes:
· * Requiring the activation of body-worn cameras during any enforcement action or other situation outlined in the directives of the Columbus Division of Police
· * Require Police to request aid from emergency medical services upon a use of force that results in serious bodily harm, as well as the rendering of medical aid under certain circumstances. Also, requiring police officers to obtain regular recertification to render aid.
Those who violate these new chapters can be subject to discipline, per City policy and applicable collective bargaining agreements. However, in egregious cases, where the behavior evidences a reckless disregard for the express requirements of the new chapter pertaining to rendering aid, the City may pursue remedies beyond discipline, including the filing of criminal charges against violators for dereliction of duty.
City Council is proposing these changes to promote accountability and to assure the safety of all Columbus residents. This action further contributes to Council’s efforts to reimagi...
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