Policing

Law enforcement must protect both public safety and the rights of individuals. This is why arrests and use of force should be last resorts, not first options, for police. The ACLU-WA advocates for stronger laws regulating police use of force, alternatives to arrest and incarceration, and de-escalation practices and training. And to ensure law enforcement is accountable to the people they serve, the ACLU-WA works for greater community oversight, such as independent civilian review boards with disciplinary authority.

It’s time to prioritize traffic safety for all Washingtonians. This bill will do that.

Low-risk traffic stops are ineffective at keeping people safe.

Is crime rising in Washington?

Let’s take a closer look at the data.

Cover of the wallet card: What to do if you're stopped by the police

Wallet Card: Your Rights With the Police

What to do when you are stopped by the police

Resources

State of Washington v. K.L.B.

Amicus concerning juvenile conviction for making false, immaterial statements to a public servant

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Criminal Justice

Policing

City of Seattle et al. v. Shin

The ACLU will file an amicus brief discussing the significant civil liberties problems associated with civil asset forfeiture and the importance of the government complying with notice procedures.

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Criminal Justice

Due Process

Policing

Snaza v. State of Washington

Brief addressing the harmful effects of tear gas and its chilling effects on our rights

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Policing

Horvath v. DBIA Services

Amicus brief concerning applicability of the Public Records Act to a downtown business improvement organization that illuminates the role that organization plays in fostering the over policing of communities of color in downtown Seattle.

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Policing

Public Records

Earl v. City of Tacoma

Interpreting the Public Records Act to increase transparency is important in fighting racial inequity in policing, especially when it comes to Native Americans because they are disproportionately impacted.

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Policing

Public Records

Racial Justice

State of Washington v. Roden

Case about the extent to which the police can use a cell phone obtained during a lawful arrest

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United States v. City of Seattle

In 2011, the ACLU-WA and 34 other civil rights and community-based organizations asked the Department of Justice (DOJ) to investigate whether the Seattle Police Department engaged in a pattern or practice of violations of civil rights.

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Policing

Racial Justice