New York Senate Bill S00112

New York 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/8/25
• Refer: 1/7/26

Caption

Establishes the crime of doxing a police officer, peace officer, or state officer when a person knowingly makes restricted personal information about a police officer, peace officer, state officer, or a member of the immediate family of such officer, publicly available with the intent to threaten, intimidate, or incite the commission of a crime of violence against the police officer, peace officer, state officer, or a member of the immediate family of such officer; or with the intent and knowledge that the restricted personal information will be used to threaten, intimidate, or facilitate the commission of a crime of violence against the police officer, peace officer, state officer, or a member of the immediate family of such officer; requires the posting of bail.

Summary

Bill S00112 aims to amend the penal law and criminal procedure law in New York by establishing a new crime of doxing specifically targeting police officers, peace officers, and state officers. Under this bill, doxing is defined as the act of knowingly making restricted personal information about these officers or their immediate family publicly available with the intent to threaten, intimidate, or incite violence against them. The bill classifies doxing as a class D felony, thereby imposing significant legal consequences for individuals who engage in such behavior. In addition to defining doxing, the bill also modifies existing provisions in the criminal procedure law to include doxing as a relevant offense when considering bail and pre-trial release conditions. This inclusion aims to ensure that individuals charged with doxing are subject to stricter scrutiny regarding their release, particularly if the act is associated with other violent crimes or threats against law enforcement personnel. The bill's introduction reflects a growing concern over the safety and privacy of law enforcement officers, especially in the context of rising tensions between police and communities. Proponents argue that the legislation is necessary to protect officers and their families from potential harm resulting from the public dissemination of personal information. They assert that such measures are essential for maintaining public safety and supporting law enforcement. However, there are notable points of contention surrounding the bill. Critics express concerns about the potential implications for free speech and the vagueness of the term 'doxing.' They argue that the bill could lead to overreach, where individuals may be penalized for sharing information that is already publicly accessible or for expressing dissent against law enforcement practices. This debate highlights the balance between protecting officers and preserving civil liberties in the public discourse.

Impact

If enacted, Bill S00112 would create a new legal framework for addressing doxing in New York, specifically targeting law enforcement personnel. This would result in the establishment of doxing as a class D felony, which could lead to increased penalties for individuals found guilty of this offense. The bill would also amend existing laws regarding bail and pre-trial release, making doxing a relevant factor in determining the conditions under which individuals charged with this crime may be released. Overall, the legislation aims to enhance the protection of law enforcement officers and their families from threats and violence stemming from the public release of personal information.

Sentiment

The general sentiment surrounding Bill S00112 appears to be mixed. Supporters emphasize the need for stronger protections for law enforcement officers in light of increasing threats and violence against them, framing the bill as a necessary step to ensure their safety. Conversely, opponents raise concerns about potential infringements on free speech and the implications of broadly defining doxing, suggesting that the bill may lead to unintended consequences that could stifle legitimate discourse and criticism of law enforcement practices.

Contention

Key points of contention include the potential for the bill to infringe on free speech rights, as critics argue that it may criminalize the sharing of publicly available information. Additionally, there are concerns about the vagueness of the definition of doxing and how it may be applied in practice. Proponents of the bill, primarily from law enforcement and public safety sectors, argue for the necessity of protecting officers and their families, while civil liberties advocates caution against the risks of overreach and misuse of the law.