N.Y. police told to respect photographers

NEW YORK, April 13 (UPI) -- The New York Police Department says photographers and tourists have the legal right to photograph public places and sites.

The New York Post said Monday that an operations order sent out by New York police to its officers in response to complaints details that most photographic activities in the city are "rarely unlawful."

"Photography and the videotaping of public places, buildings and structures are common activities within New York City ... and is rarely unlawful," the NYPD order says.

NYPD Deputy Commissioner Paul Browne said the directive represents the police department's attempt to fight potential criminal or terrorist activity while honoring citizens' First Amendment rights.

"It is a balancing act," Browne told the Post.

Donna Lieberman, New York Civil Liberties Union president, applauded the police order, telling the Post, it is an act of progress that will protect innocent individuals when taking photographs in the city.