NY court: Public allowed to see police body camera footage
NEW YORK (AP) — A New York appeals court has ruled that police body camera footage is subject to public disclosure under state law.
An Appellate Division panel said Tuesday that the footage doesn't constitute a personnel record and therefore isn't covered by a state law that keeps such records secret.
New York Police Department Police Commissioner James O'Neill called the ruling important for transparency.
The Associated Press and other media outlets had filed briefs arguing the footage is vital to transparency and police accountability.
The city's largest police union fought its release, citing privacy and safety concerns.
An email seeking comment was sent to the Police Benevolent Association.