Unfortunately, due to ongoing coronavirus restrictions, the May California Peace Officers’ Memorial ceremonies at the State Capitol have been postponed to 2022. The seven California officers who would have been honored publicly will now be recognized next year alongside the fallen from 2019 and 2021, along with officers from both the recent and distant past. Read More
A Symbol of Remembrance – The History and Significance of the Red Poppy on Memorial Day
Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, is a day for our nation to remember and honor — in person or in spirit — the brave men and women of the U.S armed forces who gave their lives in service to our country. In observance of this day, many individuals attend large public memorials or visit national cemeteries to place flowers, flags and photos on the graves of the fallen. Many also choose to don a red poppy — a symbol of remembrance whose origins date back to World War I. Here, we uncover the storied history of the flower that came to memorialize our heroes. Read More
The Origins of the Thin Blue Line
The thin blue line is a powerful phrase and symbol recognized and embraced by many in the law enforcement community to show solidarity, support and pride for the profession. But where does it come from? In honor of National Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15, we’re diving into the history of this iconic phrase and image and what it means to law enforcement. Read More
Capitol Beat – Police Licensing
On March 16, Senator Steven Bradford (D-Gardena) held a press conference to introduce SB 2, a bill seeking to eliminate the legal immunities for peace officers in California and create a licensing program for peace officers in California. SB 2 is a reintroduction of last year’s SB 731 (Bradford), which officially died as a result of the Assembly floor not taking it up for a vote before the midnight deadline. PORAC has serious concerns with SB 2 and its impact on the well-being of our officers and the public. Read More
Federal Legislation – Tragedy at the Capitol
It’s been a beautiful spring in Washington, D.C., but one marred by tragedy. On April 2, Capitol Police Officer William Evans was killed when a driver rammed his car into a barricade surrounding the U.S. Capitol complex. Officer Evans, an 18-year veteran of the force, lay in state within the Capitol Rotunda on April 9, where he was eulogized by President Joe Biden and celebrated for his heroic life. We at Steptoe & Johnson LLP share these sentiments, and offer our sincerest condolences to Officer Evans’ family and friends. The heroism of Capitol Police officers, as well as law enforcement officers across the country, has never been more appreciated. Read More