California sheriff speaks out, claims new bill would make self-defense illegal | Law Enforcement Today | lawenforcementtoday.com

RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA - Sheriff Chad Bianco with the Riverside County Sheriff's Office (RCSO) released a video on social media explaining how a recently introduced bill in the California State Assembly would essentially "make self-defense against criminals" illegal.

According to KRCR, Assembly Bill 1333 was introduced by Assembly Member Rick Zbur of Santa Monica on February 21st and aims to "eliminate certain circumstances under which homicide is justifiable, including, among others, in defense of a habitation or property." The bill, which can be found on the California Legislative Information website, further specifies that homicide is "not justifiable when a person uses more force than necessary to defend against a danger."

Bianco said, "For more than a decade, the leadership in Sacramento has literally tied the hands of law enforcement, and made it almost impossible for us to protect you. Now, they're coming after you and your ability to protect yourself."

In his video, Bianco said that the bill would "tie the hands of residents while coddling criminals." He warned, "If a criminal attacks you or your family and you defend yourself and that criminal dies as a result of his criminal behavior, you could be arrested and charged for murder." Bianco emphasized, "You have a constitutional and God-given right to protect yourself. You actually have that right under California law."

In response to criticism over the proposed bill, Assembly Member Zbur clarified the bill's intent, writing on X, "AB 1333 was never intended to limit a crime victim's right to defend yourself, your family, or home. The goal is to prevent wannabe vigilantes like Kyle Rittenhouse from provoking violence and claiming self-defense after the fact. We will amend the bill to make this crystal clear."

Bianco, who announced his candidacy for governor in February, has been critical of Governor Gavin Newsom's actions in office. He made the announcement alongside supporters and other elected officials. Bianco is among the most notable names to declare for the Governor's Office in 2026, joining current Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaragiosa.

Bianco is among the most high-profile Republican to throw his hat in the ring. A Republican has not occupied the Governor's Mansion since Arnold Schwarnegger in 2006, and the party has not had a member in statewide office since 2011. NBC Palm Springs reported that Bianco was the featured speaker at a luncheon hosted by the East Valley Republican Women Patriots in Rancho Mirage.

The event, which celebrated Bianco's leadership, was marked by a significant divide, with his supporters applauding his stance on various issues while protesters gathered outside. Some say Bianco has become a polarizing figure in the region. Inside the venue, his supporters hailed him for standing up for his principles. Protesters voiced their opposition to his views and leadership. 

Supporters argue that Bianco is standing up for what the majority believes, while critics contend that his actions and rhetoric made him unfit to represent the community.