Police Practices
Every Californian who has an encounter with the police deserves to be treated with dignity and fairness. But too often police officers violate individuals’ constitutional rights. The ACLU of Northern California works to hold law enforcement accountable. We advocate for victims of police misconduct and support reforms that make our communities safer, while also reducing the role of police.
The Latest
Settlement Reached in Mathis v. County of Siskiyou: Shasta Vista Residents Secure the Right to Reliable Water Access
Under the settlement, the County will refrain from enforcing local laws that had the effect of curtailing water deliveries to Shasta Vista.
ACLU Report Finds Sacramento Police Disproportionately Stopped Black People for Traffic Violations
Black and Latino drivers were more likely to be searched
Siskiyou County Settles Claims Over Race-Based Traffic Stops, Agrees to Major Reform
Sheriff’s Office to follow new traffic stop reforms and comply with independent oversight
Cases, Campaigns & Legislation
Jan 20, 2026
SIREN, et al. v. City of San Jose, et al.
The ACLU of Northern California and the Electronic Frontier Foundation filed suit in Santa Clara County Superior Court against the City of San Jose and others to challenge San Jose police officers’ practice of searching for location information collected by automated license plate readers (ALPRs) without first getting a warrant.
Apr 23, 2024
ACLU of Southern California v. City of Fresno
Action against the City of Fresno for its failure to provide records about police canine use of force, as required by the state’s Public Records Act.
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