icepics wrote: Usually it seems to be not so much taking the photo but what you intend to do with it. If it's on public property or you're photographing it from public space that might be permissible, but if it's on private property, or obviously in a crime scene that's off limits etc., that might not be allowed.
If you wanted to use the photo, since the subject probably has their agency's name/logo on it, if it's recognizable you'd most likely need a property release. You could probably use the photo for editorial purposes (newspaper/magazine) without a release but for retail or commercial use you'd need a release signed. Even for editorial use often with a photographer a newspaper hasn't worked with before, a release may be requested.
You can look at ASMP or try PPA for info. on releases, usage, etc. http://asmp.org
icepics wrote: It is an agency, a public one, but it's the police or sheriff dept. or whatever city, county, or township where it's located. I don't think you can use the logo or trademark of a business or agency to profit from; the city/township/county most likely owns the logo on their cruisers. You might be able to sell a print intended for the buyer's personal use (to hang on the wall) but to license usage of images of someone's property you usually need a signed release. I don't know offhand about property of a public agency.
Gary your opinion may differ but you don't seem to be providing sources or links to any pro photography information. I'd suggest the OP go to some of the websites for pro photographers like ASMP, PPA, or NPPA and see what you can find out. Or you could try looking at the website for the police/sheriff's dept. or your city, county or township; a large department or a county/city would probably have someone who handles PR that could answer questions and provide information.
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