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 law that keeps such records secret.

New York City 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 police accountability.

The city's largest police union fought its release, citing privacy and safety concerns. The Police Benevolent Association says the decision is wrong, and it's assessing appeal options.