By Gary Grado | Arizona Capitol Times
Opponents of a bill to keep the names of police officers who use deadly force secret for three months after a shooting argue that such a law will deepen the distrust minorities have towards police.
The bill’s sponsor, Sen. Steve Smith, a Maricopa Republican, said it is simply a way to protect police officers whom are often threatened in the emotionally-charge aftermath of a police shooting.
The Senate Public Safety, Military and Technology Committee approved the measure 3 to 1 Wednesday on a party-line vote. The bill, SB1445, must still win approval on a full vote of the Senate, House and signature of the governor.
