Technology is a double-edged sword. It has enabled the government to become more intrusive than ever with its online spying capabilities. However, cheap and discreet recording devices make it much more feasible to hold cops on the street accountable.
Police State USA encourages holding government officials accountable but advises everyone to research the laws in their own states regarding secretly recording audio conversations (Read more: The Reporter’s Recording Guide). Encounters with police officers in public generally do not fall under such restrictions, particularly after the recent court decision in Illinois.
Here, we intend to look at the technologies that facilitate that recording.
Streaming App for Cellphone
UstreamUstream is a cell phone application that allows a user to begin recording video and audio — and simultaneously stream the data to an online account — at the click of a button.
If you are in a tense situation with the police, click the app button and the rest is done automatically. While running, it doesn’t look like a streaming app.
The video files will then be available online when viewing the user’s Ustream account.
Pros:
Easy to use.
Preserves video even if cell phone is confiscated.
Does not give obvious clues that the app is streaming.
Reputable app with product support.
Video/audio quality correspond to user’s phone capabilities.
Cons:
Internet uploads depend on having a sufficient phone signal.
May not be compatible with certain phone operating systems.
Presence of a cell phone will always draw suspicion of recording.
more here:
http://www.policestateusa.com/2014/record-police-without-losing-videoFYI: In some states it is always legal to record police actions, but that doesn't assure that they will not take away (or even smash) your camera.
In other states it is never legal to take photos or movies of the police.
If you are not certain, I'm sure the friendly man with a large, warm taser will help you figure it out.
Do you record the police, especially when being pulled over?