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A&O Shearman partners with NYCLU to achieve landmark victory in the New York Court of Appeals

A&O Shearman partners with NYCLU to achieve landmark victory in the New York Court of Appeals
Published Date
Feb 24 2025
A&O Shearman represented the New York Civil Liberties Union (NYCLU) pro bono in a major victory in the New York Court of Appeals concerning the public disclosure of law enforcement records related to allegations of officer misconduct.

The Court definitively held that agencies across the state cannot categorically withhold "unsubstantiated" police disciplinary and misconduct records based on the personal privacy exemption within the Freedom of Information Law, but rather agencies must evaluate each individual record to determine whether the exemption applies. This landmark decision will enhance transparency and accountability concerning how law enforcement agencies handle complaints of misconduct.

“We are very proud to have partnered with the NYCLU on this incredibly significant matter. This landmark decision will ensure that all New Yorkers have access to important information regarding how police departments investigate complaints of misconduct. Our hope is that this decision will result in enhanced accountability and trust between the public and law enforcement departments across New York state,”

Image of Joshua Ebersole

Joshua Ebersole

Partner

The A&O Shearman team who counseled on this significant matter included partners Joshua Ebersole and John Nathanson, with support from associates Sheyla Soriano, Sean Boren, Leslie Bean, Zach Deaton, Sam Jolly, Fatou Waggeh, and Amelia (Memmi) Rasmussen.

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