On Tuesday, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors majority voted in favor of drafting an ordinance that would prohibit both federal and local law enforcement officers from concealing their identities. The purpose behind this ordinance is due to LA residents reportedly having, since the controversial ICE raids that began in June, “disturbing encounters” with agents either masked or in plainclothes and not identifying themselves or displaying their credentials.
The motion for an ordinance was proposed by County Board Supervisor Janice Hahn, which seeks to enforce the following rules on both state and federal law enforcement. There is, however, a notable exception for officers involved in undercover operations, along with medical and fire protection.
“1. Prohibit law enforcement officers, including federal agents, from wearing masks or personal disguises while interacting with the public in the course of their duties in unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County — with limited exceptions such as for medical protection, fire/smoke safety, gas masks, or undercover operations.
“2. Require all law enforcement officers, including federal agents, to visibly display identification and agency affiliation while performing their duties in public spaces within the unincorporated County.”
The one abstaining vote came from Supervisor Kathryn Barger. According to ABC 7, Barger was doubtful that “the ordinance would really provide any comfort to residents, given the questions about whether the county will be able to enforce the law against federal law enforcement.”
The motion is being sent to county attorneys who must respond within 60 days with language for the official ordinance. Hahn noted that a decision against the ordinance may be decided in a court, but she stressed the importance of setting an expectation for the LA community and the police conducting operations therein.
“Ultimately, it might have to be decided by a court. But regardless, it is important that we set the clear expectation that when you are in LA County, this is how all law enforcement should conduct themselves,” Hahn said. “Our communities are asking us to protect them. I believe that implementing this ordinance will show that LA County stands up to injustice and hate by working to hold all law enforcement officers accountable to their duty to protect and serve.”
