Many who oppose the creation of an independent police monitor for the NYPD have mischaracterized how it would operate. This fact sheet brings clarity to the debate by separating fact from fiction.
Although President Obama began his first term by pledging to bring an unprecedented level of transparency to government, he has largely continued and even intensified his predecessor’s secretive practices in matters of national security.
The authority to classify documents exists to protect information that could threaten national security if it got into the wrong hands. It is one of the most important tools our government has to keep us safe. But many secrets “protected” by the classification system pose no danger to the nation’s safety.
Although it is important for state and local police departments to remain vigilant and prepared, the revelations in Sen. Coburn’s report should give pause to federal officials contemplating the future of homeland security spending.
The Brennan Center for Justice submitted written comments to the Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board regarding the Board’s agenda, pursuant to the notice published in the Federal Register on October 23, 2012, at 77 FR 64835.
