ALCO Sheriff Admits to Subverting Public’s First Amendment Rights

(Image credit: APTP)

This past Tuesday, spectators to the ongoing trial of former SLPD Officer Jason Fletcher were met with harassment, aggression, and corruption of technology to prevent the people from effectively exercising their First Amendment Rights.

As you may be aware, many social media platforms and streaming sites include automatic algorithms to delete copyrighted content. Well, law enforcement across California are using that to disrupt legal filming of their activities by playing pop music that will prevent the public from posting those videos to social media and/or streaming sites like YouTube. It also just makes it harder for people to hear what’s happening when cops are attempting to intimidate residents and civilians.

In this case, an Alameda County Sheriff’s Deputy explicitly admitted to this on video and the story has been picked up by multiple media outlets. You can read more about it at Gizmodo and The Verge.

Here’s a particularly illuminating quote: “You can record all you want. I just know it can’t be posted to YouTube.”

“When the sergeant whipped out his phone and started playing Taylor Swift, Burch was taken aback. “Are we having a dance party now?” he asked. “No, sir,” the sergeant said. “Are you playing pop music to drown out the conversation?” another APTP member asked. “No,” the sergeant responded. “He doesn’t want you recording so he’s playing music in the back,” Burch said. On camera, the officer said recording was fine — but posting it online wouldn’t be.”

This exchange speaks volumes about the corruption inherent in police attitudes towards transparency and accountability. It’s indicative of a siege mentality rather than of one to protect and serve.

Complaints are being prepared for filing against the ALCO Sheriff’s Deputies involved in this disgusting behavior while local outlets continue to report on whether such practices are even legal under state law, local law, or applicable police department policies. In the meantime, local organizers and activists are reaching out to newly hired Interim SLPD Chief Susan Manheimer to determine whether SLPD officers are using this same shameful tactic. Hopefully, the bravery of local activists and organizers will prevent future incidents like this.

Until then, take note and take care.