At Lotze Mosley, LLP, our Washington D.C. criminal defense attorney knows there are seemingly endless times when the police interact with the public in our nation’s capitol. Whether during a traffic stop, community patrols, crowd control, or an emergency response, the general public has reasons to scrutinize police interaction with the public.
The question becomes, when does recording police activity and interactions with the general public become unlawful? We have answers.
When Does Recording Police-Citizen Interactions Become Unlawful?
In Washington, D.C., recording public police-citizen interactions is generally allowed as long as you are not interfering with the officer’s duties or violating other laws. Washington, D.C., has a one-party consent law regarding recording conversations, meaning that as long as one party—which could be you—consents to the recording, it is generally legal.
However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind:
- Respect the Officer’s Orders
If an officer instructs you to stop recording or to move back, it’s advisable to comply to avoid escalating the situation.
- Avoid Interference
While you have the right to record, you should not interfere with police activities or obstruct their duties. Be mindful of your distance from the officers and avoid becoming a distraction or obstruction.
- Be Aware of Privacy Concerns
Although recording public interactions is generally allowed, you should be cautious about recording bystanders who may not consent to being recorded, especially if they are not involved in the interaction with law enforcement.
- Know Your Rights
Familiarize yourself with your rights regarding recording in public spaces, but also be aware of any local ordinances or regulations that may restrict recording in certain areas or situations.
- Exercise Caution
While recording can be a valuable tool for accountability and transparency, it’s essential to use discretion and judgment in deciding when and how to record interactions with law enforcement to ensure your safety and the safety of others involved.
If you have any doubts or concerns about recording police-citizen interactions in Washington D.C., it may be beneficial to consult with our skilled defense attorneys, who are familiar with the laws and regulations. This is especially true if you have been arrested for recording police interaction with you or another party.
Contact Our Criminal Defense Lawyer at Lotze Mosley, LLP Today
Call (202)-393-0535 to speak with our skilled criminal defense attorneys at Lotze Mosley, LLP in Washington, D.C. We will protect your rights from the start of the investigation, allowing you to make informed decisions about the direction of your case.
