Along with this new technology, some agencies are now struggling with the costs involved in storing the data, replacing outdated equipment, and meeting the statutory-required biennial audits. Minnesota Statute 13.825 addresses these portable recording systems — requiring the agency to have an independent audit of the data every two years to determine whether data collected was appropriately classified, how the data are used, whether the data are destroyed as required, that only authorized personnel have access to the data, and whether the data is being shared properly with other agencies.
Upon the completion of the audit, the results must be shared with their local governing bodies (city councils, etc.), who review whether the agency is in compliance with this statute [MN statute 13.05, Subd. 5 (data protection), and MN statute 13.055 (breach in security)] and take the necessary action for noncompliance. The results must also be provided to the Legislative Commission on Data Practices and Personal Data Privacy no later than 60 days following the completion of the audit.
The League of Minnesota Cities has posted a “Use of Body-Worn Cameras” informational memo and a model body-worn camera policy that provide significant guidance on the use of body-worn cameras and the resulting data to help cities administer their body-worn camera programs in accordance with law. As a reminder, an agency must develop a written policy and post the written policy on the agency’s website, if the agency has a website (MN Statute 626.8473).
I have seen various vendors contracted to complete these independent audits for our League of Minnesota Cities Insurance Trust members. To obtain a list of these vendors, feel free to email me at tstille@lmc.org or give me a call at (651) 215-4051.
Remember: Responder Safety = Public Safety
Up next: Animal Cruelty and Enforcement
In the meantime, stay safe and be careful –
Tracy
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