Bill > A04735

This bill, known as "Cariol's Law," establishes a legal requirement for police officers and peace officers to intervene when they witness another officer using physical force that they reasonably believe is excessive or beyond what is objectively reasonable. The bill defines various types of use of force, including brandishing firearms, using chokeholds, deploying chemical agents, and actions resulting in serious injury or death. Officers who observe such excessive force are required to intervene safely when possible. The law introduces significant consequences for failing to intervene, including potential criminal liability, termination of employment, and civil liability. Officers must file a formal complaint with their department's chief when witnessing excessive force, and failure to do so can result in disciplinary action. The bill also provides retroactive protection for officers who were previously terminated for reporting excessive force within the past 20 years. Additionally, the law amends labor protections to explicitly protect police and peace officers from retaliation when they intervene to stop excessive use of force. The legislation aims to create accountability and discourage police misconduct by placing a legal obligation on officers to prevent excessive force by their colleagues.

Housing and Urban Affairs

https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2025/A4735