By Police1 Staff
NEW YORK — A videographer at a New York news crew was arrested while filming a police chase — and he has now released the footage of his encounter.
Phil Datz, 34, was confronted by a police officer who told him he was interfering with “an active investigation.” Datz remained on the scene, moving his camera about a block away from his original location and continuing to film. Datz says he tried to negotiate reasonably with the officer and claims he was unfairly charged with obstructing governmental administration, according to Seattle PI.
Datz — who posted the footage on YouTube — wants the district attorney to drop his charge, and a police spokeswoman said the department is reviewing the incident.
UPDATE: The Associated Press reported Monday afternoon that Suffolk County Police Commissioner Richard Dormer said Datz’s arrest would be “nullified” and that officers will be receiving refresher training on media interaction.