Watchdogs see county rule as a muzzle

L.A. County's watchdogs suddenly need to ask permission before barking to the press and public.

- CONNOR SHEETS

"WE will not be gagged," said Hans Johnson, who chairs a civilian oversight panel.

County oversight officials and civil rights advocates are raising concerns about a new policy they say improperly limits their rights to communicate — including with other members of local government.

The policy, enacted Sept. 11, requires oversight officials to send many types of communications to the Executive Office of the Board of Supervisors for approval.

The policy says “press releases, advisories, public statements, social media content, and any direct outreach to the BOS or their staff” must be “reviewed, approved and coordinated” before being released publicly or sent to other county officials.

The policy says the change "ensures that messaging aligns with County priorities, protects sensitive relationships, and maintains a unified public voice."

Eric Miller, a member of the Sybil Brand Commission, which conducts inspections and oversight of L.A. County jails, said the policy is the latest example of the county "attempting to limit the oversight of the Sheriff's Department."

He said he made the remarks as a private citizen because he was concerned the new communications policy barred him from speaking to the media in his role as an oversight official.