NCJ Number
183851
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 48 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2000 Pages: 34-38
Editor(s)
Bruce Cameron
Date Published
May 2000
Length
5 pages
Annotation
The value of video and audio recording equipment in police vehicles is well established, but there is some question as to where, when, and for how long videotapes should be stored.
Abstract
Many videotapes produced by cameras in police vehicles contain material that can be used as evidence in court cases, and police departments are faced with the need for policies to guide the storage process. Four aspects of storage should be considered: physical, cost, access, and time. Videotapes can be used as evidence of a crime committed by a suspect or can be used to reveal improper police officer conduct. As long as police administrators keep in mind that videotapes are actually public records, they should have no problem developing policies to govern the use of videotapes. Such policies will protect police officers and civilians alike. 1 photograph