FROM: HOLLEY CARNRIGHT
DATE: AUGUST 30, 2017
Apparently there was recently a “protest” regarding the arrest of an individual in Kingston. The protest was attended by Public Defender Andrew Kossover, who represents the accused. It would be a mistake on my part to accept as fact that comments which have been attributed to Mr. Kossover were actually made. I am reasonably sure that Mr. Kossover would not actually say that a person who violates the law in the presence of a police officer is free to disregard a reasonable inquiry or demands of a police officer who has witnessed criminal behavior. That, obviously, is not the law.
In the context of his client having engaged in illegal behavior, Mr. Kossover was quoted “We have a right to be left alone. We get to enjoy our privacy, our freedom of movement . . .” Nothing could be further from the truth.
We rely on police officers to keep us safe and to enforce our laws. As the District Attorney I certainly hope that people do not fail to obey the lawful order of a police officer.
I have no comments on the actual case, which is currently pending. I choose to allow that matter to be litigated in the court system.