The Murrieta Police Department has adopted a creative approach to comply with a new California law to protect the identities of individuals accused of nonviolent crimes.
In response to Assembly Bill 994 and Penal Code 13665, which restrict the sharing of booking photos and mug shots, the department has begun using Lego heads to conceal suspects’ faces in booking photos.
In a statement on social media, the MPD emphasized its commitment to transparency while respecting suspects’ rights and protections.
California Police Department (Credits: WOODTV.com)
By covering individuals’ faces in booking photos, the department aims to share information with the community while complying with the new law.
According to a police spokesperson, the use of Lego heads to obscure faces predates the implementation of the legislation. For several years, the department has employed various methods to obscure suspects’ faces in social media posts, reflecting a proactive approach to compliance with privacy regulations.
California Police (Credits: Los Angeles Times)
The law mandates the concealment of suspects’ identities and requires that mugshots posted on social media platforms be removed after 14 days unless specific circumstances justify their retention. By adhering to these guidelines, the MPD seeks to balance public safety communication with protecting individuals’ privacy rights.
The proactive measures undertaken by the Murrieta Police Department highlight its commitment to respecting legal requirements while fulfilling its duty to keep residents informed about public safety events in the community.
