Even if they want to obscure your ability to legally record, speak to your recording device and say what you can see. document using the SALUTE method. Pass SALUTE info to the rapid response network you are a part of.
Size: How many agents/ officers?
Activity: What specifically are the agents doing? If someone is detained and you know their A number and/or DOB, note it.
Location: Give an exact address or intersection and in NYC, a boro. The same address can be found in multiple boros. Include Av/St/Rd etc.
Unit(s): What letters, details, or patches are visible on the uniforms/jackets/vests/vehicles? Example: HSI/Homeland Security Investigations/Police Gang Unit, ERO, POLICE, CBP/US Customs and Border Protection, CBP Field Operations, POLICE DHS (2 kinds: NYPD Dept Homeless Services that are NOT ICE and Department of Homeland Security, who are federal agents)
Time: What precise time did you witness this? This info should be shared quickly.
Equipment: What did agents have with them? Ex: weapons, flexicuffs, dogs, door breakers, LRAD sound cannon, vans, SUVs, etc.
Can citizens do the same with flashlights?
Actually, people get charged with assault for flashing a light in a cops eyes.
https://www.gillettenewsrecord.com/news/local/article_56716d86-29af-5023-8018-75577af52c92.html
They’ve also been charged with obstruction, interference, and other contempt of cop offenses.
Cops are not allowed to do this either, especially when it’s to obscure video. It is called “prior restraint” and is an explicit violation of the first amendment.
Now, the trick is figuring out how to press charges when they aren’t even being held accountable for blatant murder in the streets.
This is the insight I was looking for. Thank you. What a double standard. Have a great week King.
Bike lights and some flashlights can be extremely bright. I think this would be appropriate, but I am not a lawyer.
Any recommendations?
I use a NiteRider 1200 Boost on my bike. I don’t have a specific suggestions for flashlights, but there are reviews out there:
https://gearjunkie.com/outdoor/hiking/best-flashlights
https://gadgets3dp.com/best-flashlights-2025/
https://madtasting.com/vetted/best-flashlights/
Prolly the same reviews that the Gravy Seals are looking at for EDC flashlights.
We could. And we could use cameras that will film their activities even if they shine a light right onto the camera. The problem is that our phones aren’t made to do that on their own.