Reps. Weinstein and West give sponsor testimony on Darren's Law

COLUMBUS– State Rep. Casey Weinstein (D-Hudson) and Assistant Minority Leader Thomas West (D-Canton) today gave sponsor testimony before the Ohio House Civil Justice Committee on House Bill (HB) 320. This legislation—named Darren’s Law—would allow the subject of a false and racially discriminatory 911 report to bring civil action against the caller. 

Darren’s Law is named for Darren Cooper, a Hudson, OH, resident who was the victim of racial profiling in a 911 emergency call. On August 13, 2020, Mr. Cooper was using his cell phone in his vehicle when a woman called 911 claiming that he was waiving a gun and acting erratically. Mr. Cooper was waiting in his car for a training to start for his job with Summit County Children Services. Others were similarly on phones waiting in their vehicles, but Mr. Cooper was the only Black man in the parking lot. Police searched his person and car and found no weapon.

“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.”

“I’m glad to have the opportunity to present testimony for Darren’s Law and bring attention to the continued danger and harm that racial profiling is causing in our state,” said Rep. Weinstein. “911 exists for real emergencies, not to expose our Black and brown neighbors to experiences like Darren’s.”

HB 320 was introduced in May 2021. The bill now awaits further hearings in the House Civil Justice Committee.