2005 House Bill 5414

Establish police “Garrity statements” law

Introduced in the House

Nov. 8, 2005

Introduced by Rep. Kevin Green (R-77)

To prohibit the release to a third party of certain statements made by a police officer to his or her employer about official duty actions, unless the officer gives written consent for the release. This refers to so-called "Garrity statements" (referencing a 1967 U.S. Supreme Court case), which are statements made under threat of discharge. Due to the their coercive nature these statements may not be used in a criminal case against an office without violating his or her Fifth Amendment protection from self incrimination.

Referred to the Committee on Judiciary