California lets defendants challenge racism in court. Few have succeeded

By Sean Kevin Campbell | CALMatters When police pulled over Tommy Bonds III on a chilly January day in 2022, the San Diego State University student had an idea why. “What’s goin’ on, bro? How you doin’?” San Diego Police Officer Ryan Cameron said as he approached the car, shining his flashlight in Bonds’ face. Bonds told Cameron he recognized him. The officer had previously stopped him for having an issue with his license plate cover, and Bonds let him know what he thought the interaction was about. “We saw you turn around because you saw two guys — two Black guys in the car — obviously,” Bonds said. “Well, part of it,” Cameron said, “with the hoodies up and stuff.” “I mean, it’s cold outside,” Bonds said. Bonds said he had an unloaded gun in the back of his car. As Bonds removed his firearm safety certificate from his wallet, Cameron said, “Easy. Easy.” He told Bonds to exit his vehicle, then handcuffed him as he searched through his pockets. “I’m just confused on why,” Bonds said as Cameron ordered him to walk toward the police car. “I mean, if it was two white boys driving down with hoodies...