Auditors

Auditors are individuals who film, observe, and document interactions with law enforcement and other public officials, often with the intention of highlighting potential abuses of power, promoting accountability, and advocating for transparency in government activities. This article provides an overview of auditors, their methods, challenges, and contributions to public discourse and oversight.

Overview

Auditors, also known as First Amendment auditors, accountability activists, or cop watchers, are part of a broader movement focused on monitoring public officials, especially law enforcement officers, and ensuring transparency in their interactions with the public. The primary tool of auditors is video documentation, often recorded on smartphones or other portable devices. They film public encounters, interactions with police officers, government employees, and other officials to document their conduct and provide evidence of any potential misconduct or rights violations.

Methods

Auditors operate independently or in organised groups, often sharing their footage on social media platforms like YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter. They may conduct audits in various public settings, including police stations, government buildings, transportation hubs, and public roads. Some auditors specialise in specific areas, such as police interactions, public records requests, or governmental meetings.

The methods of auditors vary but generally include:

Filming: Auditors use video recording devices to document their interactions with public officials. They may also wear body cameras or use dash cams in their vehicles.

Observation: Auditors observe and monitor the conduct of public officials during encounters, paying close attention to any actions that may infringe on individuals' rights or constitute misconduct.

Reporting: After filming, auditors often share their footage on social media platforms, along with commentary or analysis. They may also submit complaints or requests for investigations to relevant oversight bodies, such as police departments or civil rights organisations.

Challenges

While auditors play a crucial role in promoting accountability and transparency, they face several challenges, including:

Safety Risks: Auditors may encounter hostility or aggression from the individuals they are monitoring, including police officers or other government officials. There have been instances where auditors have faced harassment, intimidation, or even physical violence during their audits.

Legal Concerns: Some auditors face legal challenges, including arrest or charges of obstruction or interference with public duties. They may also be subject to civil lawsuits or harassment campaigns by individuals or organisations unhappy with their activities.

Public Perception: Auditors may be viewed with suspicion or scepticism by some members of the public, who may perceive their activities as confrontational or antagonistic. Public perception can influence the reception of their videos and their impact on public discourse.

Ethical Considerations: Auditors must consider ethical questions related to their activities, such as the impact of their videos on the individuals they film and the broader implications of their work on law enforcement-community relations.

Contributions

Despite these challenges, auditors have made significant contributions to public discourse and oversight:

Accountability: Auditors hold public officials accountable for their actions and promote transparency in government activities. Their videos provide a record of interactions that can be used for accountability and oversight purposes.

Education: Auditors raise awareness about individuals' rights, the role of law enforcement, and the importance of government transparency. Their videos serve as educational tools for the public and policymakers.

Advocacy: Auditors advocate for reforms and changes to policies and practices that they perceive as problematic or harmful. They often collaborate with civil rights organisations and community groups to advance their goals.

Conclusion

Auditors play a vital role in promoting accountability and transparency in government activities, particularly law enforcement interactions. Their work contributes to public discourse, education, and advocacy for systemic changes. However, auditors face significant challenges, including safety risks, legal concerns, and ethical considerations. Moving forward, it is essential to recognise the value of their contributions while addressing the issues they confront.