The NYCLU submitted an amicus brief arguing that a lower constitutional standard for police stops of bicycles will permit the police to disproportionately criminalize New Yorkers of color yet again and dissuade these communities from reaping the environmental and health benefits of cycling.

At issue is the level of suspicion needed for police officers to stop people on bicycles, a determination that the NYCLU argues will have ramifications for the millions of Black and Brown New Yorkers who will bear the brunt of a lower standard to stop cyclists. Nationwide and NYC data show stark racial disparities in police interactions with cyclists, with cyclists of color being disproportionately stopped and searched.

Date filed

October 14, 2022

Court

Court of Appeals of the State of New York

Case number

APL-2021-00143