So an article was released today by the Times Picayune that discussed questions on the NOPD's policy of completing Field Interview Cards on all parties they come in contact with.
As always, Supt. Serpas made the argument that the department is doing nothing wrong. He stated that "officers are utilizing judgment in accordance with law and professional practice."
How can this be the case when officers have been ordered to complete and FIC anytime they conduct a criminal history or driver's license check of a subject, even in instances involving minor traffic infractions or traffic crashes.
This is all coming out after the Legal Aspects instructor in the NOPD Academy, P/O IV Larry Cager sent a memorandum to Chief Serpas and his top advisors that the practice was illegal and in violation of the 4th Amendment. I should note that Officer Cager has a Juris Doctorate and was admitted to the Louisiana State Bar Association on April 18, 1997.
Evidently Officer Cager has some knowledge on the subject and should be taken seriously. More so because Officer Cager is the sole instructor for Legal Aspects for the NOPD and teaches every academy class and those completing in-service training.
Step up and admit your policy was wrong Chief. Don't stand behind the members of the department when your acts are found to be wrong.
Just my $.02
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