OCA TELLS TPD TO DISARM

I was just informed by Chief Al Moscola, Office of Court Administration Security, that any police officers attending the upcoming trial of D/SGT Epstein (scheduled to begin 10/15) will not be allowed to be armed in the court room.  This includes on duty, uniformed members, even members who are required to testify.  I objected in the strongest possible terms that our members, especially uniformed members who are required to testify, should not be disarmed.  I raised a number of concerns and was told that it was the decision of the Administrative Judge and OCA “headquarters”.   I find this decision, particularly with on duty, uniformed members required to testify, to be disturbing and having no legitimate security or anti-intimidation basis.

I am asking any members (on or off duty, uniformed or plainclothes) who attend as spectators to identify themselves upon entry to the courthouse and secure their firearms in the provided lockers. Members who are required to testify should indicate that to the OCA personnel and you will be escorted to an area not accessible by the public and secure your firearms at a location near the courtroom.  Please remember that the OCA Peace Officers have jurisdiction and control over the courthouse and to comply with their lawful instructions.  In the event of an issue with these procedures, or if you are treated improperly, you are authorized and directed to contact me immediately.

Thanks,


Brian G. Owens
Chief of Police
City of Troy, NY Police Department
55 State Street
Troy, NY 12180