AG James today announced a landmark agreement to overhaul how the City of Saratoga Springs responds to protests and other First Amendment activity. An Office of the Attorney General (OAG) investigation found that Saratoga Springs violated the constitutional rights of protesters by retaliating against protected speech, making unjustified arrests, conducting improper surveillance, and failing to discipline officer misconduct. Following OAG’s investigation, the city must overhaul its internal affairs and police response practices, establish new training and accountability mechanisms, and take steps to ensure that residents can exercise their First Amendment rights free from retaliation or unnecessary police intervention. The reforms now required in Saratoga Springs are among the most extensive ever secured by Attorney General James to protect First Amendment activity.  

“New Yorkers have the fundamental right to speak out, organize, and protest without fear of unlawful interruption or retaliation. Our investigation found that Saratoga Springs repeatedly violated those rights and targeted protesters because of their message. This agreement is a significant step toward rebuilding trust between the Saratoga Springs community and its police force and will ensure everyone is able to safely express their beliefs.” – AG James