CHICAGO, IL – The struggles against police misconduct and brutality is felt in Chicago which is why bodycam footage has become instrumental in ensuring those charged with protecting and serving don’t overstep their mandate. If you’ve been a victim of police misconduct, bodycam footage is a crucial element in your civil rights lawsuit; however, this isn’t your only key to a successful case.
If you feel you’re being treated unjustly, bodycam footage has the potential to hold police officers accountable for their actions. Having an unbiased eye that sees everything as it happens can make or break your case because it shows exactly what happened.
Bodycam Footage as Legal Evidence
Bodycam footage is recorded by police officers during their duties which offers a first-hand perspective of the incident. Bodycam footage shows clear evidence of what actually happened. To be admissable in court, the footage must meet specific legal standards of relevance and authenticity which include:
- Relevance – the footage must directly pertain to the case.
- Authenticity – the footage must be genuine, unedited and trustworthy.
- Chain of Custody – the footage must have a clear tracking from capture to court to prevent tampering.
Challenges Using Bodycam Footage
Bodycam footage is invaluable; however, securing it has some obstacles such as:
- Accessibility – there’s often a maze of red tape to navigate for access.
- Inconclusive nature – the footage might miss key moments or provide a limited viewpoint.
- Integrity questions – doubts about editing or the chain of custody can undermine its effectiveness in court.
Because of these hurdles, it’s important to seek legal counsel if you wish to pursue a civil rights lawsuit against a police department.
Contact the Police Misconduct Attorneys at the Dinizulu Law Group in Illinois
Bodycam footage is a critical tool to prove police misconduct in Chicago, Illinois. The footage offers a tangible piece of evidence in disputes that often rely heavily on personal accounts. If you’re considering legal action against a Chicago police department, contact the seasoned attorneys at the Dinizulu Law Group today! Our attorneys ensure justice and uphold civil rights for our clients. Fill out this form or call us at (312) 384-1920 to learn how we can best support you.