My friend needs a copy of a video from police where unethical and unnecessary force was used on him...

Question

He wants to send a letter of some sort?? What the heck do I tell him? Can't he just physically go to PD and request it?

Answer 1

He can go to the police department. Most departments have a policy about releasing the tape.

If there is a criminal case against him, he can simply request a copy in the discovery phase.

At my department, you file a form questing the tape. You need $20, the date, approximate time, unit number (car) or officer name or badge number. Failing to have some of that information subjects you to research fees. If you request the tape as part of a misconduct complaint and the officer is found to have acted wrongly, your money will be refunded.

Answer 2

I bet the tape comes up missing...

Answer 3

He could request one through the "Freedom of Information Act" at the cop shop. Don't be surprised if they say they "Lost" it or it got "Accidentally" erased.

Answer 4

If he wants a copy of the video just go to the PD and ask .  There will be some administrative fees involved but he will get his tape.  Or at least should.

Answer 5

He can go to the PD and request the video through Open Records laws. They will normally release this to anyone, but can charge a reasonable fee for processing. If the request is denied, it can be appealed to the District Attorney, or you can retain an attorney.

Answer 6

He needs to contact a lawyer or the dept of community affairs in the city you live.

Just going to the police station isn't going to get him very far.

He also needs to understand what he wants to accomplish if he takes his case forward.