The bill amends existing law to strengthen the presumption of bad faith for peace officers who fail to comply with body-worn camera policies and procedures. Specifically, it establishes that peace officers who knowingly or intentionally do not adhere to these policies shall be presumed to have acted in bad faith and will be deemed liable for intentional spoliation of evidence. This change emphasizes accountability among law enforcement personnel regarding the use of body-worn cameras.

Additionally, the definition of "law enforcement agency" is expanded to include the police departments of public post-secondary educational institutions, thereby ensuring that these agencies are subject to the same body-worn camera requirements as other law enforcement entities. The bill outlines specific requirements for the use of body-worn cameras, including activation protocols, retention periods for recorded footage, and disciplinary measures for non-compliance.

Statutes affected:
JU substitute: 29-1-18