Police department using LEGO heads on suspect arrest photos [Video]

WASHINGTON — The Murrieta Police Department has been getting a lot of attention recently for using LEGO heads to cover up the faces of suspects on arrest and booking photos on social media. 

Since 2021, California has prohibited agencies from posting mug shots on social media if the person was accused of a non-violent crime. 

Then, a state law took effect at the start of 2024 that strengthened the restrictions, prohibiting law enforcement agencies from posting most mugshots online. The new law still allows authorities to post mugshots on social media if a person is accused of a violent crime or if there is a threat to public safety.

“The Murrieta Police Department prides itself in its transparency with the community, but also honors everyone’s rights & protections as afforded by law; even suspects. In order to share what is happening in Murrieta, we chose to …