Utah bill would keep police names secret after shootings


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SALT LAKE CITY (AP) — A Utah state legislator is pushing for a "cooling-off period" that would keep secret the names of any law enforcement officers involved in shootings for up to four months.

Republican Rep. Mike McKell tells the Deseret News (http://tinyurl.com/j2569ht) the bill he is sponsoring is motivated by concern about backlash toward police around the country when officers have used force against members of the public.

He's worried some officers are being targeted for harassment or violence for doing their jobs.

Former Salt Lake Police Chief Chris Burbank says he's concerned such a law would exacerbate mistrust of law officers.

Attorney Jeff Hunt says many of the concerns cited in the bill already are addressed under current Utah law.

He specializes in media law and has represented The Associated Press.

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Information from: Deseret News, http://www.deseretnews.com

Copyright © The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

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