Hempstead Town Judge Rules on School Bus Camera Records

A New York judge has expressed frustration with Hempstead, America’s largest town, for releasing only 17 out of nearly 3,000 emails requested in a case concerning improperly issued school bus camera tickets.

Judge Maureen McHugh Heitner of the State Supreme Court stated that the town’s failure to produce the records showed “willful disobedience and resistance.” This ruling came just last week.

The town had previously committed to releasing the records after entering into an agreement with the Brooklyn-based legal firm Aron Law PLLC in June.

Joseph Aron, representing the plaintiffs, noted that this is a recurring issue for the town.

Essentially, the problem revolves around the town using video footage from bus cameras to ticket drivers who don’t stop for the buses. It’s meant to enhance safety but is also a significant revenue generator, bringing in millions.

Aron’s law firm took legal action after town officials denied a Freedom of Information Act request submitted in September 2024. There’s some ambiguity, though; while they focused on whether bus camera violations were still being issued, a separate Suffolk County decision had ultimately pointed to a driver’s guilt based solely on the camera footage.

After the town dismissed Aron’s request as excessive, the matter was escalated to the state Supreme Court. In June, provisions were made for the records’ release.

However, the town did not fulfill its obligations, according to the judge’s statements.

Heitner’s ruling demands that the town produce the remaining 2,850 emails within a 60-day window. The decision also allows Aron’s firm to seek reimbursement for legal fees and damages, with the court to determine that amount in December.

On Wednesday, Hempstead Town prosecutor John Macaron claimed he was unaware of the judge’s ruling. Town officials later acknowledged the verdict and stated they would comply with the judge’s orders.

The town pointed out that the issue started under former director Donald Clavin, while the newly appointed director, John Ferretti, has instructed his legal team to ensure “all emails” are released.