Redwood Curtain CopWatch, based in the north coast of California, is part of a larger movement of self organized CopWatch groups throughout the US. Our local efforts seek to intervene in the drastic rise of the presence, militarization, and violence of the police, and build support networks based on self-determination, caring, and concrete needs.
right to observe
Open Letter to Humboldt District Attorney Gallegos: Return Our CopWatch Cameras!
Submitted by copwatch on Mon, 04/05/2010 - 8:05pmSent via email and personal delivery
April 5, 2010
Open Letter to Paul Gallegos,
On Monday, March 15, 2010, Mr. Ray Thompson and I were arrested while on CopWatch patrol. CopWatch patrol means that a small group of us were out with video cameras, papers and pens, handouts with CopWatch and Know-Your-Rights information, and watchful eyes and ears- to observe the police as they interact with other members of the public. Both Mr. Thompson and I are experienced observers and also well-versed in constitutional rights. As you know, observing and filming police activity in public is constitutionally protected activity. Although we encourage all people to stop, observe, and if possible film police anytime they see them interacting with the public, when we are 'on patrol,' those of us representing Redwood Curtain CopWatch wear visible patches that read “CopWatch.” Redwood Curtain CopWatch does not interfere with officers; we simply observe and document. Our reputation confirms that.
