HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Supreme Court of Pennsylvania has ruled that the state police cannot keep their policy on social media monitoring a secret from the public. Advocates for civil liberties are celebrating this decision, despite the law enforcement agency’s argument that revealing this policy may compromise public safety.
The ruling, supported by all four Democratic justices, states that the lower Commonwealth Court overstepped its authority by trying to justify the state police’s attempt to keep the details of their policy confidential. This decision puts law enforcement agencies on the same level as other government agencies when it comes to transparency. If law enforcement wants to keep something secret, they must provide sufficient evidence to justify it.
Andrew Christy, a lawyer with the ACLU of Pennsylvania, believes that people need to know what the police are doing in order to determine whether their actions are appropriate. This knowledge allows the public to hold law enforcement accountable through their elected representatives. The court ruling aligns with this sentiment, ensuring that citizens have the right to understand and evaluate law enforcement practices.
The Pennsylvania State Police spokesperson stated that the agency is reviewing the court’s decision. Meanwhile, the ACLU lawyer sees this ruling as a step towards leveling the playing field between law enforcement and the public.
Ultimately, transparency and accountability are essential in maintaining a healthy relationship between law enforcement and the public. This ruling serves as a reminder that government agencies, including law enforcement, are accountable to the people they serve.
