Part 4/12:
Advocates for reform emphasize the need for increased accountability and transparency within law enforcement agencies. Their proposals include scrutinizing police unions' role in obstructing disciplinary actions. A study examining 178 police union contracts revealed that 156 contained clauses allowing officers to hinder investigations or discipline. These provisions often impose strict time limits on inquiries, restrict interrogation procedures after fatal encounters, or require complainants’ personal information to be disclosed to officers—fears that discourage victims and witnesses from reporting misconduct.