Keep Cops’ Names Secret?

Lawmakers are considering whether to withhold the names of police from the public.

The bill moving forward in Virginia is drawing sharp criticism from open records advocates who say the names are an important tool in holding officers accountable.

Supporters say handing over the lists of police officers and sheriff’s deputies would put them in danger during what they describe as “growing contempt toward law enforcement.”

The bill would exempt the names and training records of law enforcement officials from Freedom of Information Act requests.