MCDOT

Fraternal Order of Police Lodge Issues Statement Opposing Proposed Bill That Would Prohibit Certain Searches of Vehicles by Police

By MCS Staff

The Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 35 (Montgomery County) issued the following statement in opposition of  Bill 2-24, the Freedom to Leave Act, which was introduced by Councilmember Will Jawando on Tuesday. The new bill proposes to “(1) prioritize Fourth Amendment rights and reduce disparities in traffic enforcement by prohibiting consent searches of a motor vehicle or person by a police officer; and (2) improve data analysis for traffic stops by requiring the collection of additional data and annual reporting of traffic stop data. This new bill replaces the STEP Act.”

“Yesterday, Councilmember Jawando introduced Bill No. 2-24. This will prohibit the ability of Montgomery County police officers to conduct consent searches, which are allowed per the 4th Amendment of the United States Constitution. Councilmember Jawando has again introduced legislation that will impede officers’ abilities to do their duties proactively, particularly in the seizure of illegal guns and drugs. Choosing not to partner with law enforcement endangers both residents and officers in Montgomery County.

Through policy that has already been implemented, Montgomery County Police Officers go beyond the requirements of the 4th Amendment. Currently, when requesting a search of any person or vehicle, officers provide notice of a right of refusal. Legislation, such as this, has a direct correlation to the numbers of police officers in Montgomery County. This legislation and similar laws, which were previously passed by the last council, have a negative impact on retaining high quality and professional police officers.

We urge the County Council to oppose Bill 2-24 and repeal law enforcement policy laws passed by the previous Council that have done nothing but limit the size of our police force and made Montgomery County less safe.”