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State Rep Pushes for Ban on Uploading Footage of Fights

DaOpfer
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Flickr/Creative Commons

Illinois State Representative Terri Bryant wants to make it illegal for people to upload videos of fights to social media for entertainment. 

The Murphysboro Republican says violators would be slapped with a disorderly conduct misdemeanor.

Michael Curtis teaches law enforcement at Western Illinois University. He says what’s entertainment for some, could be evidence for others.

“Maybe I post it on YouTube not knowing the parties involved but somebody comes forward and says, “Hey I know these parties involved and not only that but I know the perpetrator of the offense," Curtis said. "Do we really want to limit that application?”

Curtis says he appreciates the intent of the legislation but says it probably won’t pass because it’s overly vague and infringes on freedom of speech.