Body-Worn Camera Policy

Body-Worn Camera Background

The use of body-worn cameras (BWCs) in law enforcement is relatively new. The primary purpose of using BWCs is to capture evidence arising from police-citizen encounters. While this technology allows for the collection of valuable information, it opens up many questions about how to balance public demands for accountability and transparency with the privacy concerns of those being recorded. In deciding what to record, this policy also reflects a balance between the desire to establish exacting and detailed requirements and the reality that officers must attend to their primary duties and the safety of all concerned, often in circumstances that are tense, uncertain, and rapidly evolving.

Body camera worn on the chest of a police officer

Maplewood Police Department Body-Worn Camera Policy

The Maplewood Police Department has finalized its Body-Worn Camera Policy (PDF). The department presented the final version of the policy to the Maplewood City Council on November 14, 2016. The policy became effective at 12:01 am on November 15, 2016.

The City engaged in a comprehensive review and public input process for the development of this policy, which significantly exceeded the requirements as established by Minnesota law (See Minnesota Statute 626.8473). The policy development process included input, discussion, or consultation with the following:

  • Individual subject matter experts
  • Law Enforcement Labor Services staff
  • Maplewood City Attorney - Civil, prosecution, and labor services 
  • Maplewood City Council members
  • Maplewood Community members
  • Maplewood Police Department personnel
  • Maplewood’s “Use of Force” Work Group
  • Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension staff
  • Minnesota Chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union
  • Minnesota Coalition on Government
  • Ramsey County Attorney’s Office staff
  • St. Paul Chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP)