Policy Text
MOBILE VIDEO/AUDIO RECORDERS (MVR)
EFFECTIVE DATE: 04/18/13 STANDARD NO. 084 REVISED: 06/05/18
REPLACES: N/A Rev. 03/27/18
OBJECTIVE: To establish guidelines for employees in the use, management, storage, and
retrieval of audio-visual media recorded by in-car, motorcycle, body worn or any
other mobile, mounted or wireless, audio/video recording equipment (MVR) video
systems.
POLICY: It is the policy of the Homestead Police Department to provide police officers with
general guidelines on the use of the Mobile Video Recorder while on patrol, as
an effective tool to visually document incidents and events to the fullest possible
extent as they actually occur. The MVR is to be used for documenting criminal
activity and evidence of criminal activity, identify training needs, evaluate officer
performance, and to protect officers from false allegations of misconduct or
impropriety. Officers will use the MVR equipment to record the interactions
between officers and the public as described in this procedure.
SCOPE: All employees shall be governed by the procedures set forth below.
I. DEFINITIONS:
A. Mobile Video Recorder (MVR): The Mobile Video Recorder applies to all elements of
mobile video/audio recording systems. Wherever the operation of the MVR is
referenced, such operation may include both the video and audio capabilities of this
equipment (i.e. wireless body microphone, interior microphone, and video equipment).
B. Recorded Media: Refers to video/audio recorded on any of several storage devices,
including analog tape (i.e. VHS, SVHS, Hi 8mm), digital tape [DV]), or other portable
digital storage devices (i.e. CD, DVD, hard drive, etc.).
C. In-Car Camera System and Mobile Video Recorder (MVR): Synonymous terms
referring to any system that captures audio and video signals capable of installation in a
vehicle or worn on an officer, and that includes at minimum, a camera, microphone,
recorder, and/or a monitor.
II. MVR EQUIPMENT:
A. MVR equipment will be issued to the Traffic Unit and Uniform Patrol as designated by
the Chief of Police or his/her designee.
1. Officers with issued MVR equipment will ensure the proper maintenance and
operation of the equipment.
2. Officers will not alter or manipulate the equipment in any way. If the equipment
becomes inoperable or damaged an e-mail will be sent to the MVR Supervisor
MOBILE VIDEO/AUDIO RECORDERS (MVR) – SOP# 084
and a copy to his/her immediate supervisor, to have repairs scheduled. The
recorded media will be removed from the equipment to be stored per procedure.
3. Because there may be several brands of in-car video systems installed in department
vehicles, officers using in-car video systems will be fully trained in and demonstrate
proficiency in the proper use of the equipment.
III. MVR USE:
A. Officers assigned MVR equipment shall inspect the equipment prior to use and monitor
its performance throughout their tour of duty. Any problems in operating condition,
appearance, or suitability for its intended use shall be reported immediately via e-mail to
the MVR Supervisor and a copy to their immediate supervisor.
1. If repair is needed the unit will be taken to an authorized repair facility or warranty
location if applicable. The MVR Supervisor will make the appropriate
determination.