New Law Aimed to Protect Police Officers in Louisiana
SHREVEPORT, LA - A new law is in place to protect police officers while they are doing their jobs. Louisiana lawmakers passed a measure to create a buffer zone between police officers and the public.
What Does This Law Do?
This new law which went into effect on August 1 requires the public to remain at least 25 feet away from police officers while they are working. This measure also includes members of the news media.
Louisiana is the fourth state to pass such a measure. Some members of the media say this law will make it much more difficult to gather evidence of police acting inappropriately or using excessive force.
A prominent case from Baton Rouge has been cited about this measure. Alton Sterling was killed by police and several protestors were arrested during demonstrations when officers moved in with gas masks and protective gear in an effort to break up the demonstration. Some of the folks who were arrested sued the city of Baton Rouge and won a $1.1 million dollar judgment against the city.
What Could You Be Charged With?
Anyone arrested violating this new buffer law can be charged with a misdemeanor if they do not move back once an officer orders them to do so.
But this might not be the end of this debate. Several media outlets have filed suit against the state of Louisiana and the Attorney General claiming this new law violates the First Amendment.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill says she looks forward to defending this law in court. She says this law ensures police officers can do their jobs without being threatened or harassed by others.
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