ACLU investigates random train searches

[truthpusher]

http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/local/state/hc-25191010.apds.m0693.bc-ct--traijul25,0,5152007.story?coll=hc-headlines-local-wire

ACLU investigates random train searches
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Associated Press
July 25, 2005
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STAMFORD, Conn. -- The American Civil Liberties Union of Connecticut has begun an investigation into a new practice of random searches on Metro-North trains, a spokesman said Monday.

The searches began last week after the latest attacks on London's transit system. The Connecticut ACLU joins its affiliates in New York and New Jersey in raising concerns about the practice.

"We believe it opens up the door to profiling and potential discrimination," said Roger Vann, executive director of the ACLU of Connecticut. "We're launching an investigation into the situation in Connecticut similar to what our affiliates have done in New York and New Jersey. Whether or not that will result in a lawsuit will depend on what we find."

The ACLU will send monitors out later this week to a few train stations to interview commuters, Vann said. They are also taking complaints by e-mail. The address is: complaintsacluct.org.

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"The ACLU's concerns have been noted and we believe the searches are legal and something our customers want," said Tom Kelly, MTA spokesman. "The vast, vast majority think if in the slightest way it's going to improve security they're all for it. The customers understand this is the day and age we're living in."

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complete story: http://www.stamfordadvocate.com/news/local/state/hc-25191010.apds.m0693.bc-ct--traijul25,0,5152007.story?coll=hc-headlines-local-wire