In a perfect world, crime would not happen, but we all knowthat’s not the case.

In a somewhat less-than-perfect world, when crime doeshappen, concerned residents would easily be able to learn thedetails – either by doing a little legwork of their own or, morelikely, by turning to their local media outlets to bring them thenews as we do on so many other events of the day.

Unfortunately, with increasing frequency in our community andacross the state, that’s not the case either.

It’s not for lack of trying. We in the media are more than happy- eager, even – to let the public know when crime occurs in theirback yards. We see it as our duty and as your right to know.

Too many in law enforcement, however, take a different view andsweep many matters under the rug, hoping the incidents will neversee the light of day.

Aware of this problem and carrying the torch for Mississippi’snewspaper, Rep. Jeff Smith, D-Lowndes County, introduced a billthis legislative session to try to bring more openness to someaspects of law enforcement.

Smith, chairman of the House Judiciary B committee, authoredHouse Bill 1228, which would require the attorney general todevelop a form on which all law enforcement officers in the statewould record their initial incident reports. The bill would givethe attorney general the option of distinguishing publicinformation contained on the form from that which is not.

Another bill, which failed to pass the committee, would haveclearly stated that all incident reports are public record.

While H.B. 1228 would put plenty of power in the hands of theattorney general, we hope the office will not use that power tofurther restrict what can and cannot be released, should the billbecome law.

While not perfect in preserving the rights of the public,Mississippi resident who are concerned about crime in theircommunities must let their state legislators know they support H.B.1228 and urge its passage.

Law enforcement must be required to be more open and forthrightwith the public and the media, letting them know when and wherecrime occurs – both for their own safety and so they may launcheffective crime-prevention efforts.

Furthermore, if Mississippians are kept from knowing aboutcriminal activity, they have no means by which to gauge theeffectiveness of local law enforcement.

Perhaps this is one concern of law enforcement agencies, butlawmen working in the public interest must not only share theirefforts with their communities but must also invite and encouragetheir involvement and support. Knowing this, groups such as MothersAgainst Drunk Drivers and others who work for public safety andwelfare back legislation such as H.B. 1228, which now advances tothe full House.

Most law enforcement officers understand that when they arecalled to the scene of an accident or crime the basic facts (who,what, where, when) are public record. Unfortunately, far too manydo not.

The facts are simple. The officers who investigate crime are notworking in a vacuum. The public has a vested interest in theincidents and the officers’ response. Nor should the officers beworking in a closet.

It’s time to shed more light on police investigations, and HouseBill 1228 will to just that. Please contact your representativesand urge their support.