To All PSRs,
As you may know, the media regularly requests information per their rights as described in the Public Records Act. The Public Records Act (GOVT. CODE §§ 6250 - 6276.48) is designed to give the public access to information in possession of public agencies: “public records are open to inspection at all times during the office hours of the…agency and every person has a right to inspect any public record, except as…provided, [and to receive] an exact copy [of] an identifiable record” unless impracticable. (§ 6253). Specific exceptions to disclosure are listed in sections 6253.5-6253.7, 6254, 6254.1-6254.21, 6255, 6267 and 6276; to ensure maximum access, they are read narrowly. The agency always bears the burden of justifying nondisclosure, and “any reasonably segregable portion… shall be provided…after deletion of the portions which are exempt.” (§ 6253(a)) “Records” includes all forms of communication related to public business “regardless of physical form or characteristics, including any writing, picture, sound, or symbol, whether paper, fiber, magnetic, or other media.” (§ 6252(e)) Electronic records are included, but software may be exempt. (§§ 6253.9(a),(g), 6254.9(a,(d))
Over the past several months, many such requests have been made regarding the PSR program, including a complete roster, service hours, and lost/stolen property reports (for badges). Any information that our attorneys deem to be “non-public” is redacted before the request is honored. Unfortunately, your names and level of participation in the program may not be redacted.
I’m sure that many of you find it distressing to see your name listed on local media websites, and I regret their choice to keep this program in the spotlight in spite of the fact that the controversial years are far behind us. Please accept my sincere apologies for any inconvenience the press is causing you due to your service to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
Respectfully,
Lt. Tom Slayton
PSR Coordinator