ICYMI: Reps. West, Weinstein announce "Darren's Law" to stop racially motivated 911 calls

This week, State Reps. Thomas West (D-Canton) and Casey Weinstein (D-Hudson) announced legislation dealing with false and racially motivated 911 calls during a virtual press conference. 

“We have seen this happen far too many times to Black Ohioans who are just trying to go about their daily lives,” said Rep. West. “Folks should not have to live in fear of the police being called on them just for talking on the phone, loading groceries into their car, and going on a run in their neighborhood.”

Reps. West and Weinstein were joined by Hudson, Ohio resident Darren Cooper, who was victim of an alleged racially-motivated false accusation in 2020, which resulted in police arriving on scene with their guns drawn.

“It is critical that we bring awareness to this issue that affects Black Ohioans throughout this state, and that we leverage the power of education to put an end to dangerous, non-emergency uses of 9-1-1 calls,” said Rep. Weinstein.

The lawmakers plan to introduce the bill soon.

Key coverage below:

WSYX – Columbus: On racially-motivated 911 calls, Ohio lawmakers want to stiffen penalty

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“’We do not want to discourage people from calling 911, but we want them to be very mindful of why they're calling,’ Rep. West said.

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Rep. West also thanked his Democrat colleague for joining the effort – which Rep. Weinstein said was his duty.

"Some may wonder what I, as a white man, have to contribute to this topic," Rep. Weinstein said. "While it is undoubtedly the case that I have never been the victim of racial profiling, it is also the case that I must use my privilege to dismantle racist systems of oppression."

WCMH – Columbus: New Ohio law would allow victims to sue false 911 callers

“’A lot of people have fear just by the mere presence of somebody from a different race and we have to also start to look at how can we address that issue,’ said Rep. West.

WOSU – Columbus: New Ohio Bill Aims To Stop Racially Motivated 911 Calls

WEWS – Cleveland: Darren's Law, named after Hudson resident, would allow Ohio 911 call victims to sue caller for false 911 calls

WOIO – Cleveland: ‘Darren’s Law’ Bill fighting back against racially motivated 911 calls to be introduced Wednesday

Akron Beacon Journal: Prompted by Hudson man's experience, state lawmakers tackle racial bias in 911 calls

WTRF – Wheeling: New Ohio law would allow victims to sue false 911 callers

Ohio Public Radio: Bill Would Introduce Penalties For Fake 9-1-1 Calls