Bill > S0719

This bill amends South Carolina law to require law enforcement officers to provide specific information and activate recording equipment when detaining a person. Under the new provision, when an officer detains someone with reasonable suspicion of violating state laws, they must verbally inform the detained person of three key things: (1) that they are being detained, (2) the specific reason for the detention, and (3) when the person is free to leave. Additionally, the officer must activate both audio and video recording equipment during the detention. The bill includes an important legal consequence for non-compliance: if an officer fails to provide the required information, any statements obtained from the detained person prior to arrest would be inadmissible in court. This legislation aims to increase transparency and protect the rights of individuals during law enforcement interactions by ensuring clear communication and creating a recorded record of the detention. The bill would take effect immediately upon the Governor's approval.

Justice

https://www.scstatehouse.gov/billsearch.php?billnumbers=0719&session=126&summary=B