[Scan-DC] Charlotte City Council OKs expanding police power during DNC

[Blair Thompson]

http://www.charlotteobserver.com/2012/01/24/2953565/police-powers-during-democratic.html

"Council members also listed a number of prohibited items for the DNC.
People won't be allowed to carry items such as helmets and body armor; noxious substances; barricades, locks; pipes; mace or pepper spray; or other weapons.
In addition, the new ordinance prohibits people from carrying backpacks, satchels or coolers if police believe they are being used to carry weapons.
The city also established what it calls an 'affirmative defense.' City Attorney Bob Hagemann said if someone is arrested for carrying a bike helmet or backpack, they would not be prosecuted if they show the item had a legitimate purpose."

Although I haven't read the whole list, I'm guessing that possession of or listening to a scanner will probably end up on the list of prohibited activities, and that these activities will also require an 'affirmative defense.' That is, as long as you can prove that the item has a legitimate purpose, you'll not be prosecuted. Of course, you will still have been arrested.

Refresh my memory: does standing on a platform taking pictures of trains or listening to railroad frequencies have a legitimate purpose?

Paranoia or not?


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