Saggy pants foolish but legal, NYC judge rules

[July 30, 2010]  NEW YORK (AP) -- Wearing saggy pants is not a crime, just foolish.

That's how a New York City judge ruled in throwing out a summons issued to a man wearing low-slung pants that exposed his underwear.

Judge Ruben Franco said that the summons appeared to be an attempt by one police officer to show his displeasure with the style.

The Bronx man, Julio Martinez, was issued the ticket on April 20.

The judge writes that many may find the low-slung trouser trend distasteful and foolish. But he says people can dress how they want as long as they do not offend public order and decency.

Franco's decision was issued last month. Martinez and his Legal Aid attorney could not be reached for comment.

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Information from: New York Post, http://www.nypost.com/

[Associated Press]

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