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10/28/2011 03:48 PM

Supporters Of Accused Officers In Ticket-Fix Scandal Turn Out In Force

By: Vivian Lee

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Friday's arraignment of 16 NYPD officers involved in a ticket-fixing scandal attracted hundreds of supporters, including many in blue. NY1's Vivian Lee filed the following report.

It wasn't easy to get pictures of the accused officers in the Bronx ticket-fix scandal
Friday as they left the courthouse, with some supporters purposely interfering with NY1's camera operator.

Many did not like the media attention and were angry that fellow officers had been indicted for a practice they call a courtesy.

"Innocent until proven guilty. In the Bronx, police officers are guilty until proven innocent," said one supporter.

Earlier in the day, hundreds of supporters took their anger out on Police Commissioner Ray Kelly, letting them know what they think of him and making it clear through signs their position that ticket-fixing isn't a crime.

"Ray Kelly hypocrite, Ray Kelly hypocrite!" shouted some crowd members.

Others referenced Mayor Michael Bloomberg who has called it an "ancient practice" and say that it was just part of following orders.

"They were just following orders has a horrible, historical context. They weren't following orders," said one passerby.

"We don't have any confidence in them whatsoever," said another.

Supporters of the police officers were far less eager to talk.

One bystander said he was saddened by the spectacle, saying he personally loves the NYPD.

"A few bad apples, you gonna find that anywhere and everywhere, okay? There's a lot of good people, a lot of good cops out there. Because of a few a lot of them are gonna be condemned," said one bystander.

Others watching across the street from the Bronx County Hall of Justice said they deserve a break, too.

"Fix my ticket! It's only fair. What's good for them is good for us," said one opponent.

It will now be up to the courts to decide whether or not fixing tickets was indeed fair for anyone.