Individual Law Enforcement Liability Insurance, and why you need it.

7/24/2020

The Connecticut House approved a police accountability bill that will allow civil lawsuits against officers. Here's what you can do to protect yourself.

A police accountability bill was passed Friday morning (7/24/20) by the Connecticut House of Representatives after a session that lasted all night. The bill now goes on to the state Senate for consideration.
The Act Concerning Police Accountability will provide new powers to investigate and prosecute police shootings and use of force. The act creates an independent inspector general position with subpeona powers. Legislators have set new rules for the use of force and limited the ability of police to search vehicles during the motor vehicle stops, among other new mandates.
A legislative analysis of the bill states that, in certain circumstances, eliminates the possibility of claiming governmental immunity as a defense. The bill generally requires employers to indemnify police officers in such suits. The law would allow civil lawsuits against police officers and municipalities in cases of police shootings, officer misconduct, and abuse of power. During debate, opponents sought to preserve what is known as “qualified immunity” and provides police officers and municipalities some protection from being sued. Republicans predicated a “massive increase in litigation” if the bill becomes law, warning that municipalities won’t be able to find people willing to be police officers.
Mental health screenings will be required for officers at least every five years, and making it easier to de-certify rogue officers so they cannot be rehired by other departments unless they are re-certified.

Here's the good part...you can now get insurance to cover yourself with these new laws in place!

In response to the rise in scrutiny, allegations, and investigations against law enforcement officials, XINSURANCE is offering liability insurance for police officers and law enforcement professionals to protect their job and their assets. With XINSURANCE, you will have the customized coverage you need through our all-in-one approach. By reviewing your operations and experience level, we create a policy made to fit your needs. So, no matter the risk or history, we are here to help you.

Coverages:

Asset Protection
Professional Liability
Legal Liability Protection On-Duty and Off-Duty
Wrongful Acts
Alleged Sexual Abuse or Molestation Liability
Alleged Assault & Battery Liability
Concealed Firearms Liability
Failed CPR
Income Protection When Suspended Without Pay

Now that you've learned a bit about Liability Insurance for Police Officers and Law Enforcement Professionals, are you interested in it? If you're out working with civilians, it's probably a good idea, with how crazy people have gotten during these current times. It will help you to feel protected while doing your job, knowing you won't be prosecuted for doing the work you need to do to help your community.

Disclaimer: This policy may not be offered in every state depending on applicable state and local laws. In addition, legal defense is provided up until a court of competent jurisdiction enters a finding of guilt, at which time no further coverage is available under the policy. Please contact us for more information.

"The Final Inspection"

The policeman stood and faced his God. Which must always come to pass.

He hoped his shoes were shining just as brightly as his brass.

"Step forward now, policeman. How shall I deal with you? Have you always turned the other cheek? To My church have you been true?"

The policeman squared his shoulders and said, "No, Lord, I guess I ain't. Because those of us who carry badges can't always be a saint.

I've had to work most Sundays, and at times my talk was rough; and sometimes I've been violent, because the streets are awfully tough.

But I never took a penny that wasn't mine to keep...though I've worked a lot of overtime when the bills got just too steep.

And I never passed a cry for help, though at times I shook with fear; and sometimes, God forgive me, I've wept unmanly tears.

I know I don't deserve a place among the people here. They never wanted me around except to calm their fear.

If you've a place for me here, Lord, it needn't be so grand. I never expected or had too much, but if you don't...I'll understand."

There was silence all around the throne where the saints had often trod. As the policeman waited quietly for the judgment of his God.

"Step forward now, policeman, you've borne your burdens well. Come walk a beat on Heaven's streets, you've done your time in hell."

-Scott Silverii, PhD., Retired Thibodaux, La. Police Chief

Brenna Meade

Brenna Meade is the Social Media Manager and IT Manager here at Prince Hill Insurance Agency, LLC. She does everything social, like writing blogs and posting on social media. Click the button below to go to her LinkedIn.

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