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 during their interactions with the public.

Additionally, the bill expands the definition of "law enforcement agency" to include police departments of public post-secondary educational institutions, thereby ensuring that these agencies are also subject to the same body-worn camera requirements. The legislation outlines specific policies that must be adopted by law enforcement agencies, including the mandatory activation of cameras during encounters with the public and the retention of recorded footage for a minimum of 120 days. Overall, the bill aims to enhance transparency and accountability in law enforcement practices.

Statutes affected:
JU substitute: 29-1-18