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February 3, 2025

Solutions to Police Brutality in California: Legal Resources

Written by Pointer & Buelna, LLP. Lawyers For The People, reviewed by Adanté Pointer

Solutions to police brutality are being broached as an essential part of creating a just society in California. Pointer and Buelna, LLP—Lawyers For The People, is committed to assisting police misconduct victims with their legal choices toward justice and holding the responsible party accountable.

Factors Contributing to Police Brutality in California

Lack of Police Accountability and Oversight

A massive contributor to police brutality arises from a lack of accountability measures. Weak oversight lets the misconduct go unpunished due to flawed review processes and the protective influences of police unions.

Implicit Bias and Systemic Discrimination

Implicit biases within law enforcement too often lead to systemic discrimination against marginalized communities, guiding the actions of officers and culminating in disproportionate uses of force and baseless targeting.

Inadequate Training

Improper training in de-escalation or recognition of implicit bias among officers naturally sets up instances of excessive use of force. It leaves officers badly prepared to handle such complex and high-stress encounters without the use of violence.

Current Laws and Initiatives Addressing Police Brutality in California

California’s Police Use of Force Standards (AB 392)

Agencies are to be trained by training their officers on including the increased scrutiny of the use of deadly force from AB 392, which outlines the circumstances in which a homicide by a peace officer is justifiable and circumstances in which a peace officer is authorized to use deadly force to effect arrest, prevent escape, or overcome resistance. It is mentioned under California POST Guidelines.

Transparency Through Body Camera Laws

California has been trying to make many law enforcement agencies wear body cameras to increase transparency. Small cameras record interactions between officers and community members, including suspects, victims, and the general public. The Bureau of Justice Assistance says recording can document statements, behaviors, and evidence while promoting accountability by deterring misconduct and ensuring transparency.

Independent Investigations of Police Misconduct

Recent reforms called for independent investigations of incidents in which police use deadly force against suspects. Free from internal bias, such investigations should produce more balanced findings and assure a fair review process.

Strategies to Prevent Police Brutality in California

Comprehensive Training Programs

Training in de-escalation, cultural competency, and implicit bias can minimize violence and enhance interaction with diverse populations.

Improved Screening for Police Candidates

Psychological assessment of recruits in screening ensures that candidates have the right temperament and ethical standards.

Community-Police Trust-Building Initiatives

Forums, outreach programs, and oversight committees are some of the avenues in which trust is built between law enforcement and communities to reduce misconduct.

How Victims of Police Brutality Can Seek Justice in California

Filing a Civil Rights Complaint

This means a person could sue under Section 1983 of the Civil Rights Act against state actors for constitutional violations in cases of police misconduct.

Pursuing a Civil Lawsuit for Damages

The victim is also entitled to seek justice in a civil action in the recovery of damages incurred for medical costs and emotional distress brought about by police misconduct.

Contact an Experienced Police Brutality Lawyer in California for a Free Consultation

Are you suffering from police brutality in California? Pointer and Buelna, LLP – Lawyers For The People can help. Call us at (510) 929-5400 for a free consultation form to discuss your legal options.