Rochester Police Department Body Worn Cameras Principals’ Meeting (March 9, 2017)

Just the basics today Our purpose today is to gather any questions or concerns from Principals. We will use the information gathered from Principals and other constituent groups to create an FAQ and inform the next steps of the process. All patrol officers have been issued a body worn camera at this time.  School Resource Officers (SROs) currently do not wear the cameras.  It is anticipated that the SROs would be wearing the cameras in September 2017.

Body Worn Camera Placement The camera looks like a large pager that is worn in the center of the officer’s chest.  There is no light to indicate if the camera is on or off. 

Purpose of BWC for the Police Department Improve police-community relations through accountability and transparency Provide evidence and insight into RPD’s investigations Improve the image of the Rochester Police Department Improve management of Digital Evidence Media Provide evidence that may aid officers

When must the camera be turned on? Mandatory Recording Event (no exceptions) All arrests (including mental hygiene arrests), detention, force and foot and vehicle pursuits Standard Recording Event Required recording event with exceptions (not inclusive of court rooms, locker rooms and bathrooms) For example: a locker room would not normally be on camera, unless that is the location of where an arrest is occurring Optional Recording Event Members are not required to record, but may do so if it serves a law enforcement purpose Becomes mandatory if the “Optional Recording Incident” rises to the level of a Mandatory Recording Event. For example: If there is a parent meeting and the SRO is invited, the camera may not be on, but if the Officer feels that the conversation is escalating, he/she may turn the camera on. Prohibited Recording Event Members will not activate and record Must stop recording if an “optional Recording Event” becomes prohibited per policy. These prohibited events mostly consist of internal police matters.

How long are files stored and who has access? The police department has set standards to the retention of the video and access is very restricted. The City legal department oversees any release of video.  (FOIL)

Your turn These questions will be compiled with others that are collected and be utilized as we create the FAQ and next steps. For more information on the RPD and the use of Body Worn Cameras in the City of Rochester please go here: http://www.cityofrochester.gov/RPDBodyWornCamera/