Welcome to another edition of knowing your rights! On today’s episode, I answer the popular question about whether it’s legal to film police officers. What happens if you whip out your phone and hit record during a traffic stop? 

Are you legally allowed to film police officers? 

Yes, you can legally film police officers and take photos of them during traffic stops or other altercations. According to Legal Match, it’s protected by the First Amendment, which guarantees the right to freedom of speech and press. But some laws vary by state. 

But there are a few things you have to remember to avoid getting in trouble. For example, you can interfere with law enforcement. So, if you notice a trooper approaching a car after they pulled it over, don’t get in their way. 

Also, you can record anything in plain view or a public space. This includes federal buildings, transportation facilities, and the police. You can film officers on a public street, during a protest, and in a public park. 

You can film without the consent of the officer in states like California, Illinois, and Massachusetts. However, Maryland and Pennsylvania require consent. Some states might prohibit recording in sensitive locations like schools or at courthouses. 

Officers can’t demand to view your film or photographs or confiscate devices without a warrant. They’re not allowed to delete your content under any circumstances. 

Having your own footage in addition to body cam footage and dash cam footage in police cars can be beneficial in court. In some states, like North Carolina, dash camera footage is no longer public record. Plus, law enforcement agencies can deny requests to disclose video footage. 

But you must follow state and local laws. There could be restrictions on certain equipment in public spaces. It’s best to be polite and respectful to officers and others.