Reps. Sigrist, Piccolantonio Introduce Resolution to Encourage Involvement of Local Law Enforcement in State Investigations
COLUMBUS — State Reps. Mark Sigrist (D-Grove City) and Beryl Brown Piccolantonio (D-Gahanna) today introduced a resolution urging federal law enforcement to permit state and local agencies to participate in investigations of offenses occurring in Ohio. It also affirms that the Ohio Attorney General and the Ohio Department of Public Safety shall have access to case materials, evidence, and interviews necessary to conduct a thorough and independent investigation of any alleged criminal, civil, or code of conduct violation by a federal, state, or local law enforcement officer acting in the course of duty.
“Ohio has a right to investigate offenses that occur in the state. Our public trust in the criminal justice system depends on the belief that investigations are fair and impartial. We cannot have a system where the investigators are investigating their own conduct without any transparency.,” said Rep. Sigrist.
Following the tragic loss of life of U.S. citizens Renee Good and Alex Pretti in Minneapolis, federal law enforcement refused state and local law enforcement participation in the investigative process. These incidents sparked national outrage with federal statements contradicting eyewitnesses and video evidence. The resolution introduced by Reps. Sigrist and Piccolantonio intends to prevent similar occurrences in Ohio.
“It is imperative that law enforcement at the local, state, and federal levels be able to carry out their respective roles in community safety with accountability and transparency. The resolution that we are introducing today reaffirms that local law enforcement can investigate crimes that occur in their jurisdiction and that state agencies have access to evidence and investigative materials needed to independently examine law enforcement misconduct. This resolution will attest to our commitment to ensure the safety of all Ohioans,” said Rep. Brown Piccolantonio.
The resolution awaits a bill number and assignment to a House committee.