Blog

Can Video Surveillance Be Used In Court?

September 28, 2018|fsstechnologies

You should talk to a law enforcement professional in your area to know for sure what is admissible in your local court, but here are some general guidelines about criteria that law enforcement will take into consideration regarding your security camera video.

Authenticity

A digital watermark is undetectable to the human eye, but it can be detected by computers, DVD recorders, digital cameras, or other devices with the correct software. A digital watermark identifies the video or audio file’s copyright information. Digital watermarks cannot be removed or altered, which means it is a way for law enforcement to verify that the surveillance camera video is authentic and has not been modified. Most manufacturers of digital video recording devices have watermark settings already placed in their equipment, but if not, it can be added for an additional fee.

Demonstrating the video footage’s authenticity is important if it is going to be considered as evidence in court. Re-creating a video or editing it in any way might make it inadmissible in the proceedings.

Accurate Timeline

A time and date stamp can be a part of the digital watermark and must match up with the chain of events that have been reported to law enforcement. Make sure you adjust the manufacturer settings on the camera to match your local time zone when you install the camera and that it is appropriately adjusted for daylight savings time.

Video Quality

One of the reasons digital security cameras have increased in popularity over the traditional analog video is because it offers the ability to record in extremely high resolution, allowing for the camera to perform functions like facial recognition, license plate recognition, and the ability to digitally zoom distance of more than 100 feet. A video that is going to be used in court must be bright enough to identify the person accused of committing the crime.

Remember, it’s not only the camera that impacts the quality of the video. Proper lighting, especially for outdoor video recording, is vital for ensuring video clarity. Selecting the appropriate cameras for different areas of your property and knowing the Best Outdoor Security Cameras are very important considerations.

Relevance

One of the key factors in having video evidence that can be considered in a court case is that an attorney must lay the grounds to show the footage is relevant to the case itself.

Legal Surveillance

Although you can install video cameras on your property, there is always a “reasonable expectation of privacy” that is assumed in private spaces like bathrooms, changing areas, and bedrooms. Any footage from areas that are a potential invasion of privacy may be disqualified as evidence. Understanding where security cameras should be installed in a business is critical when placing security cameras in your business.

In addition to these critical factors, you need to know the law in your area about where electronic monitoring devices can be placed, particularly if you are a business owner. Check out our blog, Are CCTV Cameras Illegal in the Workplace, for more information, and be sure to double-check with local law enforcement officials.

If you would like to have your home or business covered with surveillance cameras in the event of an emergency, give us a call. We provide free estimates and are always happy to answer any questions you may have!

Explore Our Other Blogs

Hero-cfs-min

What Does a Commercial Fire System Include?

Fire safety is critical for all businesses, but the components within commercial fire systems vary significantly between industries and functions. Fires can stem from common causes that affect any commercial property and sources unique to specific fields, so fire systems must address every threat using detection, prevention, protection, and suppression. With many options available for…

Continue reading
woman-entering-alarm-code-min

5 Reasons Why You Need a Home Security System

A home security system protects your home and the ones you love. While there are many reasons you may need to invest in a home security system, we have highlighted some key ones: 1. Peace of Mind Have you heard a noise in the night and ever wondered what made the noise? A home security…

Continue reading
convential-vs-addressable_fire-alarms-hero

Addressable vs. Conventional Fire Alarms

When determining what type of fire alarm systems are best for your business, it boils down to your choice between a conventional and addressable alarm system. The combination of smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detectors work together with your control panel to keep your business safe. Additionally, you will need to determine what kind of automatic…

Continue reading
2020-01_FSSTechnologies_blogs_senior-citizen_hero

Best Security System Setups for Senior Citizens

According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), nearly 90% of senior citizens want to stay in their homes as they age even if they need day-to-day assistance or have ongoing health issues like early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia. Unfortunately, criminals often target senior citizens as victims. Thieves assume older people will not be able…

Continue reading
Hero-codes

7 NFPA Codes Every Business Should Know

Business owners have an enormous responsibility to ensure their employees and customers are protected from fire hazards. Companies in industries like manufacturing and property management each face unique challenges in preventing fires and meeting code requirements. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), one of the world’s leading experts in fire and life safety, has published…

Continue reading
Hero-avigilon-min

Security Integrations with Avigilon Alta

Security systems and integrations For business owners and managers, security systems are a key tool in protecting your customers, property, and commercial operations. There are several components to consider when working to create the best security system for your business, and there’s never a one-size-fits-all solution. A helpful approach to finding the best fit for…

Continue reading
what-to-do-after-burglary-hero-min

What to Do if Someone Breaks into Your House

Arriving home to find that your home has been burglarized is one of the worst feelings someone can have. You’re left feeling raw, vulnerable, and angry. In this time of high stress, it may be hard to put your thoughts together to remember everything that now needs to be done. We have put together a list…

Continue reading
Hero-light

Why Emergency and Exit Lighting Matter

Emergency lighting and exit lighting are vital components of life safety systems. They’re a standard part of any commercial structure and not as noticeable on a normal day. When power fails or a disaster happens, these lights guide people to safety, helping prevent panic and ensuring clear evacuation routes for everyone in a building. Whether…

Continue reading
Hero-deter-min

How to Deter Burglars From Your Business

Burglaries are often considered crimes of opportunity, leaving businesses struggling to recover in the aftermath. Although there is no all-powerful solution to protect your business, you can implement various preventative measures that bolster your security efforts. Here are 5 actions you can take to help deter burglars from casing and breaking into your business. 1….

Continue reading
outdoor-security-cameras-Hero-min

What are the Best Outdoor Security Cameras?

When it comes to protecting your home, you need to think about both the indoor and outdoor components of your security system. Security cameras can allow you to see and monitor what is going on, even if you aren’t there in person. Placing cameras outside to protect your home or business requires a bit more…

Continue reading
24h emergency
Secure My Space