Milwaukee police bodycam release procedure; FPC discusses timeline
MILWAUKEE - The Milwaukee Fire and Police Commission discussed the protocol for releasing body camera video during its meeting Thursday night, April 6 which included public comment. One activist group is calling for the files to be released sooner.
At Thursday night's meeting, the FPC unanimously approved a motion to refer the file containing the standard operating procedure for body camera video release on critical incidents to the resolutions. In other words, the FPC will vote on it at their next meeting.
The proposal sets deadlines at 15 days after the incident for the public and 48 hours for the family.
There's currently no written standard operating procedure laying out the timeline.
Right now, when police shoot someone or someone dies while in custody, Milwaukee police release an edited video, with police explaining what happened. There’s no written policy that requires a timeline for the release of these "Community Briefings."
MPD's current practice is to release the video within 45 days of what they call a critical incident.
Some activists say that’s too long.
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One proposal before the Fire and Police Commission calls for the footage to be released within 15 days but allows police to redact or edit that video.
Milwaukee Police Department
It also allows the police chief to delay the release for reasons including protecting the investigation and family notification. The section allowing the chief reasons for an extension may be amended.
At a press conference Thursday afternoon, the Milwaukee Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression said the proposal isn't strong enough.
Members demanded the timeline be pushed up, forcing Milwaukee police to release the video within 48 hours. They say that would promote transparency when officers pull the trigger.
"Anyone that's lost a loved one, waiting 12 days is too long," said LaNelle Ramey. "I struggle with a family. I think losing someone, 24-48 hours is reasonable."
"If we are following the family to view said video, are we now obligated for the involved officers to view the video?" said Assistant Chief Paul Formolo.