NY bill would ban cops from routine traffic stops like the one that nabbed a serial killer: ‘Most dangerous’ ever

A new bill has been proposed in the state of New York that would ban cops from stopping and searching drivers over a range of low-level violations. This includes the type of violation that led to the capture of serial killer Joel Rifkin. The bill has sparked controversy, with top law enforcement officials labeling it as “the most dangerous” and “craziest” bill they have ever seen. They argue that it would restrict police officers’ ability to conduct routine traffic stops that often uncover more serious crimes.

Nassau County District Attorney Anne Donnelly expressed her strong opposition to the bill, stating that it is the most ridiculous thing she has seen in her 36 years in law enforcement. She emphasized the importance of routine traffic stops, citing the case of Joel Rifkin, who was apprehended during a traffic stop for a missing license plate that led to the discovery of a body in his vehicle’s trunk.

The proposed legislation would prohibit officers from stopping or searching drivers for violations such as broken lights, expired registrations, window tints, and even the smell of marijuana. Donnelly raised concerns that the bill would disproportionately impact Nassau County, where there is a high volume of drivers and car accidents, potentially allowing criminals to evade law enforcement.

Supporters of the bill argue that it is a necessary step towards promoting racial equity and reducing unnecessary police encounters, particularly in Nassau County, where there are allegations of racial bias in traffic stops. Data shows that black and Latino residents account for a significant percentage of arrests and traffic stops in the county, despite making up a smaller portion of the population.

County Executive Bruce Blakeman dismissed the argument of racial bias, emphasizing that enforcing the law should be race-blind. He stated that the bill is pro-criminal and undermines public safety by limiting law enforcement’s ability to address low-level infractions that can lead to more serious offenses.

Nassau Police Commissioner Patrick Ryder echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that removing the power to enforce the law would make the roads less safe. He highlighted that most low-level infractions result in warnings rather than citations, but having the ability to enforce the law is essential for maintaining road safety.

State Senator Brady Hoylman-Sigal, who sponsored the bill, did not respond to requests for comment, and Governor Kathy Hochul’s office also did not provide a response. The debate over the bill continues as stakeholders on both sides argue for their positions on the issue.