You read that right. The NY State Senate has passed a bill that is now before the Assembly, which will make it a felony, punishable by four years in prison, “TO HARASS, ANNOY, THREATEN OR ALARM A… POLICE OFFICER.”

Many opponents are concerned that this law will be misused in a number of ways, but particularly against citizens and reporters who film police encounters. Police routinely abuse laws that are on the books already. Everything from arbitrary laws such as disorderly conduct and obstruction of police administration, to resisting arrest and assault on a police officer.

New York lawmakers have justified their proposal as follows:

JUSTIFICATION: “Police officers all across this state put their lives on the line every day to protect the people of New York. New York State must establish laws and toughen existing laws that protect the police from becoming victims of criminals. Far too many law enforcement officers are being harassed, injured, even killed while honoring their commitment to protect and serve this state. The Legislature has a responsibility to do everything we can to protect our brave heroes, our police officers, from violent criminals. This legislation contributes to that premise”.

(Nevermind your first duty to the People who “elected” you into that office. where are the laws protecting citizens form Police Harrasment. Oh wait all the cops are “good guys”, forgot to take my propaganda pill this morning)

Great examples of how the police “protect” the public and do nothing wrong include: this incident, a deaf and mentally handicapped woman was charged with felony assault on a police officer for the crime of acting as the officer’s punching bag. And this gentleman who was nearly beaten to death, who refused to be ticketed for actually doing his job, and trying to make a living

Full bill Here

Via Station Six