Clinton Police Issue Advisory On 'First Amendment Auditors'

CLINTON, CT — Police are warning residents that "First Amendment auditors" have been active in Clinton in recent days.

"These individuals often record video in public places, including municipal buildings, businesses, and areas where police officers and members of the public are present," police said. "While recording in public is generally protected by the First Amendment, some individuals may intentionally attempt to provoke confrontations or emotional reactions for videos they later post on social media."

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Police advised the community, "don't take the bait!" They had the following tips for those encountering auditors:

• Stay calm. You are not obligated to engage in conversation or respond to provocative comments.
• Avoid confrontation. Arguing, yelling, or attempting to interfere with someone recording can unnecessarily escalate the situation.
• Go about your business. If someone is lawfully recording, the best response is often no response at all.
• Know when to call police. Recording alone is generally not a crime. However, threats, trespassing, or other unlawful conduct should be reported.

"Remember: A confrontation may be exactly what someone is hoping to capture on camera," police said. "By remaining calm and refusing to engage, you avoid providing the reaction they may be seeking."

Police go on to say that the department "respects and protects everyone's constitutional rights, including the right to record in public. We also want our residents, businesses, and municipal employees to feel informed and confident when encountering these situations.

"Sometimes the best way to handle someone looking for attention is simply not to give it to them."