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Salt Lake City Police Chief Defends Privacy Bill

Feb 14, 2008 by Jeff Robinson

(KCPW News) Police officers who have been disciplined for misconduct or had formal charges filed against them could have their records hidden from the public if Senate Bill 260 is passed this session. But Salt Lake City Police Chief Chris Burbank says it's not about keeping information from the public; it's only about due process rights.

He says the bill is meant to protect officers who have not had the opportunity to file an appeal and tell their side of the story.

The chief says in minor discipline cases when an officer is not fired, the chief of police is the only one who reviews an appeal.

The chief insists that if an officer is dismissed, the department will release the reason for the dismissal, but the file will remain closed if that person did not file an appeal with the Civil Service Commission.

Sheriff's deputies already have the privileges this bill would extend to police officers. Mayor Ralph Becker is supporting it based on Chief Burbank's recommendation. To listen to a full conversation with the chief, download today's Midday Metro Podcast.


Email to a friendPosted in KCPW Newsroom. Copyright 2008 KCPW

1. Steve said:

I can't believe that journalists let Chris Burbank's assertions go unchallenged. His statements are factually incorrect and you know this. Read Utah Code:

63-2-301. Records that must be disclosed.(3) The following records are normally public, but to the extent that a record is expressly exempt from disclosure, access may be restricted under Subsection 63-2-201(3)(b), Section 63-2-302, 63-2-303, or 63-2-304:(o) records that would disclose information relating to formal charges or disciplinary actions against a past or present governmental entity employee if: (i) the disciplinary action has been completed and all time periods for administrative appeal have expired; and(ii) the charges on which the disciplinary action was based were sustained;

Will someone please do some actual journalism instead of regurgitation?

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