The NYPD's media backlash has had it's consequences for the police department: Some 13 news organizations, including AP, ABC, CBS and NBC, have demanded the practice must stop.
Journalists working for The Associated Press and The Daily News were arrested while taking notes. Another radio reporter was arrested as she recorded several blocks from Zoccotti Park.
NYPD commissioner has sent an internal message to officers ordering them not to unreasonably interfere with media access during news coverage and warning those who do will be subject to disciplinary action. This action occurred after several journalists were arrested covering Occupy Wall Street demonstrations.
NY Mayo Mike Bloomberg defended the NYPD's policy of keeping the media back, saying it was intended to protect them from harm's way.