The ACLU of Northern California has filed a lawsuit challenging the City of Fresno’s refusal to release the names of police officers involved in a recent highly publicized incident, in violation of the California Public Records Act (PRA). The suit seeks access to the names of police officers involved in the February 2009 beating and arrest of Glen Beaty and a change to the unlawful policy of refusing to release the names of officers involved highly publicized incidents within the time limits mandated by the PRA. The ACLU-NC requested release of the involved officers’ names three months ago. The California Public Records Act requires public agencies to make records available within 10 days, or, in unusual circumstances, with 24 days of the request. Article I section 3(b)(1) of the California Constitution, enacted by voters in 2004, guarantees that “the people have the right of access to information concerning the conduct of the people’s business.”
News: ACLU of Northern California