INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this policy is to provide guidelines regarding the use of Closed Circuit Television on campus.
APPLICABILITY
This policy applies to all property of the College, and all members of the College community, visitors, and contractors. This policy does not apply where cameras are used for a primary purpose other than safety and security.
DEFINITIONS
CCTV: Closed Circuit Television
Information: Information or recordings obtained from CCTV is the property of the College.
POLICY STATEMENT
The primary purposes of CCTV are to deter crime, enhance the security and safety of individuals, and to assist the Office of Public Safety (“OPS”) in investigating incidents that have occurred. Cameras serve as an important component of the College safety and security program, but are not a guarantee of safety.
The Director of Public Safety, in consultation with the Campus Safety Technology Committee (CSTC), determines CCTV camera locations. Should any department, faculty, or staff member wish to establish or make use of CCTV on campus, they must provide a written request to the OPS. No CCTV devices may be installed without the approval of the CSTC. The use of CCTV monitoring and recording activities will generally be restricted to common areas or sensitive areas where increased security is deemed appropriate, in College owned, controlled, or leased property. Mobile or portable CCTV equipment may be used for the same purposes as permanently affixed or installed cameras or monitoring devices.
Information Retention
Recorded video generally will be stored for a period not to exceed 30 days and may then be rendered unrecoverable, unless retained as part of an incident report, criminal investigation, legal proceeding, or other use authorized by the Director for Public Safety or his/her designee.
Information Release
Information may only be used in accordance with the law and College policies. Information may not be accessed or released except when authorized by the Director of Public Safety or his/her designee. The General Counsel may also authorize the access or release of Information that relates to a legal matter or investigation.
Monitoring Procedures
OPS is responsible for oversight and coordination of CCTV monitoring and recording. Personnel responsible for the use of any such monitoring and recording will be appropriately trained and supervised. Any video monitoring or reviewing will be conducted in a professional and ethical manner consistent with the law and College policies. CCTV is primarily used for investigative purposes after a report of an incident. Cameras are not required to be monitored in real time. CCTV cameras, however, may be monitored for legitimate safety and security purposes at any time.
Policy Exceptions
Exceptions to this policy may be granted by the Director of Public Safety or his/her designee in coordination with the Office of General Counsel.