City Council to Look at Possible Recommendations on LASD Detainee Release Policies

The Malibu City Council will have the opportunity Monday night to follow the lead of its Public Safety Commission and explore whether to recommend to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department that it consider making some changes in its policies and protocol related to the release of arrestees.
The issue of releasing individuals, who either have been booked and are not detained, and those who have spent time in custody, without adequate consideration for their ability to care for themselves once they leave a sheriff’s station has developed a vocal constituency.
The critics of the status quo says it is in conflict with law enforcement agencies’ commitment to “protect and serve,” may put vulnerable individuals in harm’s way, and ultimately may cost taxpayers large sums of money to defend litigation that might lead to even larger settlements or jury awards.
If these individuals do not have someone to contact, or are unable to reach assistance, they may have to walk alone for miles or accept rides from strangers, or they might even disappear and be found dead.
The PSC recommendation is that persons not be released between sunset and sunrise unless there is confirmed transportation. They can now be released at any hour of the night. The panel also proposes that individuals not be separated from the personal belongings they need for their well-being and safety—a wallet, money or credit cards, a cell phone, and, in cold weather, an outer garment. This is now subject to an arresting officer’s discretion, but the PSC recommends that it be made mandatory.
The City of Malibu is being urged by critics of the current LASD policies to take the initiative in this discussion, which is now occurring in a number of communities throughout the state.