Sunday, April 10, 2016

No Crime On NJ Transit Trains

Undoubtedly the use of private conversations on NJ Transit trains to prosecute those engaged in criminal activity will be an area ripe for litigation. Not only is there constant video surveillance on NJ Transit trains but there is also an audio recording ongoing at all times. Although only on some lines at this time, there is little doubt that all lines will be under constant audio and video surveillance soon. Those conducting or discussing criminal activities on NJ Transit may expect no right to privacy during their travels. The trains display signs advising passengers of the audio and video surveillance, presumably an implicit waiver of privacy for those who do not heed the warnings. In today's world, many are becoming accustomed to their rights to privacy being chipped away in favor of safety. The question is whether an individual has a right to a private conversation with the individual sitting next to them. Initially, the audio and video recording systems were being installed on NJ Transit trains to protect passengers from criminals targeting them for their electronic devices. After 9/11 security increased and now, with the recent terrorist attacks in Paris and Brussels, when it comes to public transportation, "no" is becoming the obvious answer to the question of whether an individual's right to a private conversation in a public place is greater than the safety of the general public. This is not a new concept as PATH trains have been equipped with video recording systems for some time. NJ Transit policies for storing the recordings have not been released and certain groups are concerned about the government using the recordings to gather information about individuals. For more information about your rights to privacy, visit DarlingFirm.com.