I'm attorney Mike Scafiddi with Shouse Law Group.
I am a retired police sergeant and now
a criminal defense attorney practicing in California.
Oftentimes, I'm asked by people how can they
get copies of police body cam videos and police shooting
videos.
Unfortunately, it's very difficult, and sometimes almost
impossible, for a private citizen
to obtain that type of information.
However, under California law, an attorney
has different vehicles in which to obtain
such critical evidence.
They include the discovery process,
pursuant to Penal Code section 1054; subpoenas
by way of what's called subpoena duces tecum,
subpoena for records; and finally, through FOIA,
the Freedom of Information Act.
By using these lawful tactics, oftentimes we're
able to receive information which
allows us to get cases dismissed or significantly reduced
against our clients.