Brown University Police Under Fire for Withholding Arrest Records from Journalists: What You Need to Know

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) of Rhode Island has taken a stand against the Brown University police. They filed a lawsuit because the university’s police department claims it doesn’t have to follow the state’s Access to Public Records Act (APRA). This act typically allows the public to access police arrest reports.

This lawsuit was initiated after reporters from Brown’s student newspaper, the Brown Daily Herald, and Motif Magazine requested information about arrests made by the Brown Police Department. When the police department ignored these requests, the reporters sought help from the ACLU. Fausto Anguilla, an ACLU attorney, argues that since Brown’s police officers have state-authorized powers, they should not be exempt from APRA.

In recent years, transparency surrounding police activity has become a hot topic. A 2021 study from the National Police Foundation revealed that 74% of people believe it’s crucial for police departments to be transparent. The tension between privacy and public interest is in the spotlight now more than ever.

Noble Brigham, a journalist involved in this case, believes public access to police reports is essential. “It helps people understand why someone was arrested,” he said. His concerns became apparent when he attempted to access arrest records related to a man charged with multiple offenses on campus; Bronw Police initially brushed his request aside.

Similarly, Michael Bilow, another reporter, faced a roadblock when he sought documents about the arrest of 41 students protesting against university investment practices. Both reporters filed their complaints with the Rhode Island Attorney General, who later sided with the Brown Police, reinforcing their stance of not being subject to APRA—hence the lawsuit.

The ACLU claims that the Brown Police Department, acting with law enforcement authority, should be considered a public body under APRA. Their role in enforcing laws on campus indicates a duty to adhere to transparency requirements.

Steven Brown, the executive director of ACLU Rhode Island, emphasized the importance of this case for public trust. “This lawsuit involves fundamental matters of public transparency and accountability,” he noted.

As discussions around police accountability heat up across the nation, this case stands as a significant example of the ongoing struggle for transparency between law enforcement and the communities they serve. Access to information can help prevent police abuses and foster a sense of trust, allowing communities to better understand the actions taken by those in power.

For more details on the lawsuit, you can read the full complaint here.

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