Pennsylvania – In response to the tragic death of eight-year-old Fanta Billy, Pennsylvania Representative David Delloso (D-Delaware) is pushing for a new bill that would require mandatory in-service firearms training for all police officers. The proposed legislation, known as Fanta’s Law, aims to “hold police to the highest standards” by ensuring officers are better prepared for dangerous situations and can make more informed decisions under pressure.
The Tragic Incident That Led to the Bill
Fanta’s Law was introduced after the devastating incident in August 2021, when Fanta Billy was tragically killed by police officers responding to a nearby gunfight. The officers, in an attempt to intervene, fired at a moving vehicle they believed was involved in the shooting. Tragically, the vehicle was not involved, and Fanta was struck by the gunfire. In addition to Fanta’s death, three others, including Fanta’s 12-year-old sister, were injured.
An investigation into the incident revealed that the officers involved fired a total of 25 shots at the vehicle. While the officers accepted responsibility and were placed on probation, Representative Delloso highlighted the lasting impact of their “reckless, split-second decision” on the community.
Key Provisions of Fanta’s Law
Fanta’s Law seeks to prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future by implementing stricter training requirements for law enforcement officers. The bill would mandate that all officers in agencies within counties of the second class A, with populations between 565,000 and 600,000, undergo the following:
- Mandatory Firearms Training: Officers would be required to complete at least four in-service firearms training courses each year.
- Real-World Simulation Training: Officers would also have the opportunity to engage in real-world simulation training at least twice per year, which is designed to help them better handle confrontational situations.
- Documentation and Compliance: Training completion would need to be documented. Officers who fail to meet these training requirements would be placed on administrative leave until they have completed the necessary courses.
The Goal Behind the Legislation
Representative Delloso’s goal with Fanta’s Law is clear: to reduce the likelihood of officers making rushed decisions in high-stress situations that could lead to tragic consequences. By requiring regular training and providing more realistic scenario-based preparation, the bill aims to enhance officers’ decision-making abilities, particularly when they are responding to tense and potentially dangerous situations.
This bill seeks to address the concerns many have regarding police use of force and to ensure officers are consistently evaluated and prepared for the challenges they face in the field.
Looking Forward
If passed, Fanta’s Law would represent a significant step toward more accountable and well-prepared police forces in Pennsylvania. The hope is that this measure can prevent future tragedies like the one that claimed Fanta Billy’s life and restore trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve.
