By Bob Katzen

Rep. Jim Hawkins (D-Attleboro) has filed a bill that would prohibit police and other law enforcement officers from wearing masks or personal disguises while interacting with the public in the performance of their duties. The measure was referred to the Judiciary Committee and the date for a public hearing on the proposal has not yet been set.

“Reports are on the rise and becoming increasingly alarming of masked, non-identifying individuals and groups approaching and disappearing people throughout the country,” said Hawkins. “This behavior erodes public trust, which ultimately puts everyone, including law enforcement officers, at risk. It’s unscrupulous, unethical and leads to further threats to democracy, deeply harming our communities. The traumatic experience of unwarranted and aggressive approaches by masked strangers, especially for women and girls, has proven terrifying. Often, they are in unmarked vehicles, stalking our neighborhoods and failing to produce a valid judicial warrant or explanation.”

Hawkins continued, “Spokespersons for ICE and the current administration have tried to frame our bill as an attempt to grant sanctuary to dangerous criminals and intentionally put law enforcement personnel in harm’s way. The truth is contrary. This bill is a step toward mending the divide and fostering trust between law enforcement officers and the public. With transparency, identification and reason, there should be no need for disguises while performing their duties to the communities they serve.”