🚨Eugene Police Department Hits Journalist with $2.5M Public Records Fee
City uses exorbitant fees to silence watchdogs
TL;DR
Eugene PD hit a journalist with a $2.5M fee for public records. The city claims it's to cover costs, but it's more about intimidating journalists and watchdogs.
The Eugene Police Department in Oregon responded to a public records request with an estimate of $2,484,599.04, claiming it's to cover the cost of staff time. But the real goal is to intimidate journalists and watchdogs into dropping their inquiries. This isn't the first time Eugene has used exorbitant fees to stifle public scrutiny. The city's technology double standard is evident in its investment in AI-powered license plate readers while neglecting efficient search software for public records. If you're a journalist or watchdog, this is a red flag for how local agencies might try to silence you.
Key Points
Eugene PD estimates 44,816 hours of staff time for a public records request, costing $2,484,599.04.
The city's response to Double Sided Media's request for records relating to a police officer accused of misconduct.
The city's technology double standard: investing in AI-powered license plate readers but not efficient search software.
Recent FOIA amendments aim to ensure agencies can't charge most fees if they miss response deadlines.
Double Sided Media is appealing the fee estimate, and similar requests have been met with exorbitant fees in the past.
Why It Matters
If you're a journalist or watchdog investigating local agencies, be wary of exorbitant public records fees. Eugene PD's $2.5M fee is a tactic to intimidate and silence inquiries. Cities like Eugene need to be held accountable for such tactics.
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