More than 30 people spoke Monday at a public hearing, most opposing a new county law that would make it illegal to harass a first responder. Despite the opposition, Monroe County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo signed the bill into law later that afternoon.
The legislation makes anyone convicted of annoying, harassing or threatening a police officer of first responder liable for up to a year in jail and a $5,000 fine. Opponents call the wording too vague, leaving to much up to the officer’s interpretation. They say people videoing police on their phones could be arrested and police-community relations could be harmed.
City Councilman Willie Lightfoot said he and City Council were sending Dinolfo a letter opposing the bill.
Dinolfo told reporters after the hearing that it was important to support first responders and said she’s confident the law will be implemented correctly.
