New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

New York Senate Bill S01403

Introduced
1/9/25  
Refer
1/9/25  

Caption

Enacts "Cariol's Law"; provides for a duty to intervene when a police officer or peace officer observes another police officer or peace officer using physical force that such officer reasonably believes to be clearly excessive or beyond that which is objectively reasonable under the circumstances.

Impact

Should this bill be enacted, it would amend the executive law and labor law in New York, specifically impacting how police officers handle situations of potential excessive force. It delineates the responsibilities of officers regarding intervention in misconduct, which could reshape internal police protocols and training. By creating a legal framework for intervention, the law may help foster a culture of accountability within law enforcement agencies, potentially decreasing incidences of excessive use of force.

Summary

S01403, known as 'Cariol's Law', aims to enhance police accountability by establishing a legal obligation for officers to intervene when they observe another officer using excessive force. The bill defines excessive force as that which is clearly beyond what is objectively reasonable considering the circumstances. It requires officers to take action if they have a realistic opportunity to do so safely, and failure to intervene could result in criminal liability or disciplinary actions from their employers.

Contention

The bill has garnered support and opposition within legislative discussions. Proponents argue that such legislation is necessary to prevent unnecessary injuries and fatalities caused by police misconduct while advocating for ethical standards among law enforcement personnel. Critics, however, may raise concerns regarding the feasibility of intervention in highly volatile situations, fearing unintended consequences for officers who attempt to intervene.

Implementation

Enforcing 'Cariol's Law' will involve establishing clear guidelines for police conduct and training on recognizing excessive force. Additionally, officers who fail to intervene and are found liable may face significant repercussions, including termination and potential civil liabilities. Complaints regarding a failure to intervene must also be formally reported, thus increasing transparency within police departments.

Companion Bills

NY A04735

Same As Enacts "Cariol's Law"; provides for a duty to intervene when a police officer or peace officer observes another police officer or peace officer using physical force that such officer reasonably believes to be clearly excessive or beyond that which is objectively reasonable under the circumstances.

Previously Filed As

NY A04735

Enacts "Cariol's Law"; provides for a duty to intervene when a police officer or peace officer observes another police officer or peace officer using physical force that such officer reasonably believes to be clearly excessive or beyond that which is objectively reasonable under the circumstances.

NY A03988

Grants security officers serving at the village of Ardsley village court peace officer status; provides that such officers shall complete training if they are not otherwise police officers or peace officers.

NY S08324

Grants security officers serving at the village of Ardsley village court peace officer status; provides that such officers shall complete training if they are not otherwise police officers or peace officers.

NY A00294

Provides that a person is guilty of aggravated assault upon a police officer or peace officer when, with intent to cause physical injury to another person whom such person knows or reasonably should know to be a police officer or a peace officer engaged in the course of performing such police officer or peace officer's official duties and when aided by two or more other persons actually present at an assembly in a public place, as such term is defined in subdivision one of section 240.00 of this part, such person causes physical injury to such police officer or peace officer.

NY S06111

Relates to justifying the use of force by police officers and peace officers and to the excessive use of police force.

NY A08228

Authorizes the Seagate police department receive a special parking placard for the department's motor vehicles when such officers are on official business as peace officers.

NY A10735

Establishes the offense of obstructing a police officer or peace officer as intentionally interfering with, inhibiting, or attempting to interfere or inhibit a police officer or peace officer from performing their lawful duties.

NY S05741

Limits the circumstances which justify the use of deadly force by a police officer or peace officer to instances when the person committed a felony that threatened or resulted in death or serious bodily injury and the officer reasonably believes that the person will cause death or serious bodily injury to another person unless immediately apprehended.

NY A07193

Limits the circumstances which justify the use of deadly force by a police officer or peace officer to instances when the person committed a felony that threatened or resulted in death or serious bodily injury and the officer reasonably believes that the person will cause death or serious bodily injury to another person unless immediately apprehended.

NY A08994

Requires police and peace officers receive a lawful order before assisting with immigration enforcement; requires federal agents identify themselves at the request of public officers, police officers or peace officers; establishes penalties for federal agents who fail to identify themselves.

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.