When and how will a body-worn camera video be made public?
  • Body-worn camera video is presumptively private data in Minnesota.
  • When a police investigation is active, the data is classified as confidential and will not be released.
  • If a police investigation is no longer active, individuals can access body-worn camera data only if they are in the recorded video. Data on other individuals who do not consent to the release must be redacted.  

In a few limited circumstances, data that is no longer part of an active investigation may be classified as public. This includes data documenting the use of force by a peace officer that results in substantial bodily harm, discharge of a firearm by a peace officer other than for training or animal control, data that a data subject requests be made accessible to the public (subject to redaction), and data documenting final disposition of a disciplinary action against a public employee.

Data practices laws are complex and requests are handled on a case-by-case basis to assure compliance with the law and to protect the subjects of the data. Those seeking access to body-worn camera recordings may contact the police department to request data.

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1. When will the Edina Police Department begin using body-worn cameras?
2. Why use body-worn cameras?
3. Will all police officers wear them?
4. Will officers be able to decide when to stop or start recording?
5. Will officers be able to record in a home or other private area?
6. Do people have to be notified when the body-worn camera is recording?
7. Can I ask the officers to turn off their cameras?
8. How often will officers be recording?
9. How will body-worn cameras be used in schools?
10. What are the guidelines for officers responding to mental health crisis situations?
11. When and how will a body-worn camera video be made public?
12. Who reviews the body-worn camera videos?
13. What are the limitations of body-worn cameras?
14. Can the cameras pre-record events?