This is more common than it should be. Even photographers who should know better will blithely quote "The Law" to each other about the legality of taking photographs on the NYC subway system.

Some Police Still Enforcing Non-Existent Ban On Photography In The Subways

February 23, 2006

When the MTA tried to ban picture taking in the subway last year, that plan quickly died in the face of widespread opposition. But that hasn't necessarily stopped police from enforcing the non-existent rule. NY1’s Bobby Cuza filed this report.

Taking pictures or video is perfectly legal anywhere in the subway or commuter rail system, and not grounds for a DisCon, or Disorderly Conduct, summons. And yet, scenes like this one are not uncommon; police trying to block the practice, as they did when NY1 visited the Atlantic Avenue station in Brooklyn with newspaper photographer Todd Maisel, Vice President of the New York Press Photographers Association.

He says police are routinely enforcing a rule that doesn't exist.

One of the major reasons that people don't argue with the cops on things like this is because although it may be legal to take photos in NYC subways, the cops have this little thing they like to call "Felony Contempt of Cop" which they feel is a serious crime that requires an immediate beat-down.

Smooches,

Wiggy

posted by Unknown at 12:29 PM

---