Schumer Legislation Would Protect Witnesses

In response to the recent rash of shooting incidents in Utica, Senator Charles Schumer is reintroducing legislation to help local law enforcement protect key witnesses who provide police with information about crimes.

Schumer says the measure would beef up witness protections.

He say the legislation would also increases criminal penalties for those who try to intimidate witnesses.

The Utica Common Council will take up the issue of witness intimidation at its upcoming meeting, where a resolution supporting Schumer's plan will be voted on.

In two recent shootings in Utica, the victims were uncooperative with police.