Court Increases Security in Wake of Sex Abuse Trial Photo Chaos

NEW YORK
DNA.info

November 30, 2012 1:44pm | By Nicole Bode, Sonja Sharp

BROOKLYN SUPREME COURT — Court officers stepped up security at sexual assault trial Friday, a day after supporters of the rabbi accused in the case were allegedly caught taking photos of the alleged victim on the stand to post online.

Officers used hand-held metal detectors to check spectators and confiscated cellphones from everyone who was not a credentialed member of the press before allowing them to enter Rabbi Nechemya Weberman’s criminal trial in Judge John Ingram’s courtroom.

Before testimony began, Ingram reminded the audience about proper court procedure.

“We’ve had several breaches of the laws of the state of New York. Our courts are open to the public but the court cannot tolerate any further violations,” he said. “This is not some kind of sporting event, it’s not a theater production, and I expect everyone to act accordingly.”

Despite his warnings several Weberman supporters scoffed and snickered at times while the alleged victim was giving her testimony.

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