LOUISVILLE, Ky. (LEX 18) — A state representative from Louisville has pre-filed legislation to end the use of no-knock search warrants in Kentucky.
Representative Attica Scott, a Democratic legislator, unveiled the proposed "Breonna's Law" Sunday morning at Injustice Square Park in Louisville, the central point of protests calling for justice for Breonna Taylor.
Taylor was shot and killed in her home by police carrying out a no-knock warrant back in March. No one has been charged in death.
Representative Scott's legislation, which also calls for increased police accountability, will be considered by the General Assembly when legislators return to the capitol in January.
Breonna's Law was already passed in Louisville earlier this summer, banning no-knock warrants in the city.
"There was never a need for no-knock search warrants like the one used in Breonna's case, and while this type of warrant is now banned here in Metro Louisville and appears to have little use elsewhere, I want to make sure statewide law keeps it from ever coming back," said Rep. Scott. "In addition, I want to make sure a judge specifically approves any use of violent entry when a warrant is carried out, and I want all law enforcement officers to have to wear body cameras and be required to use them when serving any warrant. This video would then have to be available if a complaint is filed, and those violating these new camera and search warrant requirements would be subject to being fired or suspended. The last major provision of Breonna's Law is to make sure law enforcement officers undergo drug and alcohol screening following a deadly incident or after they discharge their firearm while on duty. Frankly, I'm surprised this is not already standard procedure."
