Thursday, April 2, 2026 - A Philadelphia Court has implemented a tech change in a first-of-its-kind ruling.
A ban has been placed on eyeglasses with recording
capabilities, like Meta glasses. This includes both prescription and
non-prescription Smart eyeglasses.
Philadelphia Courts say this will protect the privacy of
those in the courtroom and prevent the unauthorized recording of court
proceedings.
Those who violate the ban, which came into effect on Monday,
March 31, could face criminal contempt charges, arrest and prosecution.
"There already exists a long-standing prohibition on
recording devices of any kind in FJD courtrooms. Adding Smart/META eye glasses
to the prohibition will further enhance privacy measures and help lessen
witness or juror intimidation by preventing any video recording of them,"
said FJD Court Administrator Richard McSorely.
These types of glasses, officials said, will now be
forbidden inside any First Judicial District (FJD-Philadelphia Courts) of
Pennsylvania courthouse, building, or office without the court’s express
written permission.
Officials said this new ban adds on to an existing
prohibition on any type of audio/video/listening/recording devices -- including
all cameras and/or cell phones -- inside courtrooms in Philadelphia.
In announcing the ban, court officials did not immediately
say how much any fines associated with this ban could cost, but they noted that
violators could be charged with contempt of court.
0 Comments