The document describes GoVia, a new app designed to improve police accountability and community relations. GoVia provides real-time legal support during police-citizen interactions, acting as a deterrent to misconduct and ensuring both officers and citizens are held accountable for their actions. The app also offers training for officers and legal education for citizens, fostering transparency and mutual understanding. By introducing a legal witness to all encounters, GoVia aims to break the “blue wall of silence” and create a more just and equitable system. Ultimately, the app strives to build trust and improve safety for everyone involved.
GoVia is designed to improve interactions between citizens and police by providing real-time access to attorneys and mental health professionals, which can benefit both parties in several ways
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For citizens, GoVia provides:
Protection of rights: The app connects users with legal support during police encounters, ensuring that citizens are aware of their rights and that those rights are not violated
De-escalation support: Access to attorneys or mental health experts can help de-escalate tense situations, potentially preventing unnecessary arrests or violence
Accountability for police misconduct: If an officer abuses their power, the attorney on the call serves as a firsthand witness who can testify against the officer
Mental health support: GoVia provides access to mental health professionals who can assist individuals who are anxious or experiencing a mental health crisis during police interactions
Education and empowerment: The app provides law classes for citizens, and informs them that their own attorney can be called in if they act unlawfully during an encounter
Support for immigrants: The app can provide real time legal counsel to prevent rights violations of immigrants
For police officers, GoVia provides:
Real-time legal support: The app offers officers immediate access to legal counsel to ensure their safety and the fairness of the encounter
Transparency: The presence of an independent attorney and the ability to record encounters can foster transparency and help to de-escalate tense situations
Reduced misconduct: The app can deter misconduct by police officers because the attorney on the call serves as a witness
Improved community relations: By promoting transparency and accountability, the app can help to improve the relationship between police and the community
Recognition of positive behavior: The app allows citizens to rate officers based on their interactions, highlighting positive behavior and encouraging constructive engagement
Training: GoVia provides technology training for officers, and aims to provide supplemental education and guidance on how to navigate situations with people who may be anxious or grappling with a mental health crisis
GoVia aims to create a system of dual accountability where both citizens and police officers are held responsible for their actions
By introducing a legal witness into every interaction, the app attempts to eliminate the gray areas that have long plagued the justice system. The app’s features are intended to transform the atmosphere of police-community relations by fostering accountability, education, and mutual respect. GoVia’s goal is to ensure that all parties are held accountable, empower good cops to speak out without fear, and encourage citizens to act responsibly.
