People v. Thomas

OPINION OF THE COURT

Laura R. Johnson, J.

This case presents the evolving issue of prohibitions on the use of electronic vapor cigarettes in public places. Defendant was using such a device on a subway platform. When the police approached him to issue a summons, defendant declined to provide identification and, instead, used an obscenity in telling the police to leave him alone. He was placed under arrest.

Procedural History

Defendant Shawn Thomas was arraigned on June 9, 2015 on a complaint charging him with violating smoking restrictions under the Public Health Law, obstructing governmental…