FONDA, N.Y. — What began as a simple First Amendment audit quickly escalated when Village of Fonda Mayor William F. Peeler physically confronted a journalist exercising the right to record in a public building. The incident, captured on camera, led to Peeler being charged with harassment and issued an appearance ticket for Mohawk Town Court.
The audit, conducted by Auditing Erie County, sought to verify whether “no recording” signs were still posted in the public lobby of Village Hall — signs that contradict the public’s constitutional right to record in accessible government spaces. Upon arrival, the journalist confirmed that the signs remained in place. When questioned about them, Mayor Peeler became visibly agitated, ordering the journalist to leave and eventually going hands-on, grabbing the camera.
Montgomery County Sheriff’s deputies initially declined to press charges but later, after consulting with the District Attorney, determined that a camera is an extension of one’s person. As a result, Peeler was formally charged with harassment.
In the aftermath, calls and emails to Mayor Peeler, the Village Clerk, and legal counsel went unanswered. The village has since restricted public access by installing a door that limits entry to a small lobby area. Additionally, the Village Board has reportedly discussed an indemnification resolution to “protect personal financial loss” in potential lawsuits involving public employees.
Ironically, Peeler operates Peeler Group International, a company specializing in investigations, training, and security services, fields where de-escalation and professionalism are considered essential. The video footage, however, shows no effort to de-escalate; instead, the mayor can be heard attempting to gaslight the journalist by falsely claiming he was armed and threatening.
When Act Now Media followed up at Village Hall, staff confirmed that Peeler was unavailable and directed inquiries to Village Attorney Michael M. Albanese. No official statement has been issued.
The incident underscores the importance of First Amendment rights in public spaces and highlights the need for public officials, especially those responsible for security and governance, to respect lawful recording and public accountability.
Act Now Media will continue investigating how the Village of Fonda addresses the fallout from this arrest and whether future audits show improved respect for constitutional rights.
