In a part of Jack Cashill’s latest book, “If I Had A Son – Race, Guns, and The Railroading of George Zimmerman“, Jack outlined a brief snippet of my encounters with M-DSPD Law Enforcement while seeking to obtain public records. I can tell you from first-hand experience it is dangerous, literally physically dangerous, and nerve wracking.
Because few, if any, citizens attempt to keep public officials focused on the lawful execution of their role/job; and because few, if any, journalists actually do the boot work to gain first-hand information contained within those records, government officials feel little to no compulsion to comply with the law.
Most of the officials, clerks, administrators, and compliance persons, associated with facilitation of Public Records have no idea what the laws are which should guide their compliance with lawfully requested record fulfillment. Those that do have some understanding know how to pressure, leverage, manipulate and delay such requests.
It is the policy of this state [Florida] that all state, county, and municipal records are open for personal inspection and copying by any person. Providing access to public records is a duty of each agency. (Pam Bondi FL Statute 119.01 Public Records)
It is not a mission for the faint at heart.
Persistence is the key. But organization, preparation and training yourself to stay in control of your “fight or flight” emotion is an absolute necessity.
Here are some recent video-graphic examples of what can and will be encountered. (more…)