23-186 Department General Order 5.07 "Rights of Onlookers" Update Packet #100

The purpose of this Department Notice is to announce the revision of Department General Order 5.07, Rights of Onlookers, adopted by the Police Commission on September 6, 2023. The Police Commission agreed to a 90-business day implementation period and therefore, members will be held accountable for this policy starting January 19, 2024. 

The updates in this policy include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The rights of onlookers, in most circumstances, to remain in proximity of a police contact with a subject, including the audio or video recording of the interaction;
• Exceptional circumstances that may override such rights; • Guidance during vehicle stops;
• Restricted areas where onlookers are not permitted.

Lieutenants, sergeants, and training coordinators should read, review, and discuss this policy during line ups.

Members are expected to have a working knowledge of all directives applicable to their respective assignment and comply with their provisions, per DGO 3.01.13 Accountability and Acknowledgement. Members shall obey all written orders, policies, and procedures, per DGO 2.01 General Rules of Conduct, Written Orders.

Department General Order update packet # 100 is attached to this notice and is available to members on the PowerDMS site.

/s/
WILLIAM SCOTT 
Chief of Police

Per DN 23-152, all sworn & non-sworn members shall electronically acknowledge this Department document in PowerDMS within (30) thirty calendar days of issuance. Members whose duties are relevant to this document shall be held responsible for compliance. Any questions regarding this policy should be sent to [email protected] who will provide additional information.