Extended Coverage: Cameras Now Allowed in McLean County Courtrooms
By: Kim Behrens
Updated: December 11, 2012
BLOOMINGTON- Effective Tuesday, cameras are allowed in McLean County courtrooms.
The Illinois Supreme court along with the 11th Judicial Circuit announced the decision for a pilot program.
It allows television, radio, and still photographers to cover cases.
Juvenile, divorce and sex offenses are not included.
Media must apply for courtroom permission two weeks in advance of a case.
Mclean County's Circuit Judge Elizabeth A. Robb says the measure is a victory for all journalists.
"I've always felt that the more the public knows about what's going on in a courtroom, the better they understand and appreciate and respect the process," said Robb.
McLean County is the first in Central Illinois to participate in the pilot project.
Judge Robb says the extended coverage also gives journalists a better way to document court proceedings.
The Illinois Supreme court along with the 11th Judicial Circuit announced the decision for a pilot program.
It allows television, radio, and still photographers to cover cases.
Juvenile, divorce and sex offenses are not included.
Media must apply for courtroom permission two weeks in advance of a case.
Mclean County's Circuit Judge Elizabeth A. Robb says the measure is a victory for all journalists.
"I've always felt that the more the public knows about what's going on in a courtroom, the better they understand and appreciate and respect the process," said Robb.
McLean County is the first in Central Illinois to participate in the pilot project.
Judge Robb says the extended coverage also gives journalists a better way to document court proceedings.
