San Jose wants to renew restraining order on cop watcher

An appellate court ruled that San Jose officials violated Nicholas Robinson's First Amendment rights by enforcing a restraining order that barred him from filming police officers within 100 feet. The Santa Clara County Superior Court deemed this restriction overly broad, resulting in the reversal of two of Robinson's prior convictions linked to the order. While the appellate court upheld other restrictions, including prohibitions on shining lights in officers’ eyes, the city continues to push for the order's renewal due to concerns about Robinson's behavior. Robinson described the appellate ruling as a relief and plans to file a civil rights lawsuit against the city for the financial losses he incurred during the legal battle. The case highlights the ongoing tension between civil liberties and law enforcement practices, particularly in the context of “cop watching.

” Advocates for civil rights emphasize the importance of the ruling as a defense of the right to document police actions. The San Jose Police Department has not commented on the ruling, leaving uncertainties about the city's next steps. This situation reflects broader societal issues regarding transparency and accountability in policing.