I read this a while back and am quite happy to report that the NYPD is finally getting some “training” in how to deal with terrorist plotters photographers in New York. Reported in NY Post:
Faced with complaints from photographers and tourists alike, the NYPD has issued a department order reminding cops that the right to take pictures in the Big Apple is as American as apple pie.
“Photography and the videotaping of public places, buildings and structures are common activities within New York City… and is rarely unlawful.” the NYPD operations order begins.
It further states that the NYPD has no right to forcibly take the camera of a photographer, demand that the photos be destroyed or deleted, or request to view photos taken by an individual.
The Gothamist asks if this will help Arun Wiita a south Asian Columbia grad student who was detained by police for taking photos of a subway entrance.
There is no ban on photography in the subways in New York, yet there continues to be arrests and infringement on civil liberties by the NYPD for photographers trying to sample visuals of real and surreal life around NYC.
I keep a copy of the photographer’s bill of rights and hope that this new “training” that actually should have been taught in Policy Acadamey, helps but only time shall tell.
photo credit: Ryan Brenizer
On my way back from Boston, I shoot a pic of an old school police cruiser which was leading the charge of 7 or 8 bears. I found this site online that goes through the history of old NYPD cruisers and academies: