Police body camera policy: Supporters ask judge to allow release timeline

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) – "Why can't we see it? It will not interfere with your investigation."

The mother of Dontre Hamilton, whose 2014 death at the hands of police led to body cameras, was among the people who have been calling for police body cam video to be released to families within days of a critical incident and almost a year after a policy on it was approved, she is again fighting for it.

"Ten years, and I'm here speaking to y'all still asking this system to be transparent," Maria Hamilton said.

Hamilton joined the Milwaukee Alliance Against Racist and Political Repression (MAARPR) on Friday, March 15 in Milwaukee City Hall to discuss the policy that has been in limbo since it passed the independent Fire and Police Commission last April.

"These cameras belong to the public. The video belongs to the public. We pay for this. The videos are not the property of Milwaukee police. They're the property of the public," MAARPR Educational Chair Brian Verdin said.

The policy passed last year requires the Milwaukee Police Department (MPD) to show families relevant videos within 48 hours of a critical incident and the public within 15 days. It has been tied up in court since its passing because the Milwaukee Police Association said the policy interferes with their investigations. The judge in that case is expected to rule by Monday.

"So, we're expecting a decision soon that will either set us forward on a better path toward greater transparency and accountability from law enforcement, or it will be a major setback," MAARPR Outreach Chair Alan Chavoya said. "But regardless of the outcome, we will not stop fighting."

The passing of ACT 12, which gave Milwaukee a 2% sales tax, limited the power of the civilian oversight board that passed the requirement. Now, the Fire and Police Commission cannot create policy for the police or fire departments, and that authority is now in the hands of each respective chief. If the judge in the case rules in favor of the body cam release timeline, MAARPR hopes the Police Chief will be supportive.

"Chief Norman, we expect you to stick to your word," Chavoya said. "Chief Norman stated, 'I will support the fire and police commission's decision, and I will uphold it.' That was his word. That was his promise. So, I expect him to uphold it."

CBS 58 contacted MPD for comment, and they said they "do not have a statement as there is open litigation." Last April, the MPD released a statement saying they would adhere to the commission's policy.

"The Milwaukee Police Department respects the Fire and Police Commission's oversight authority and will adhere to the policy enacted," the statement read. "MPD remains committed to transparency and building positive relationships with the community that we serve."

The Milwaukee Police Association said they will issue a response on Monday.