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Custody Operations Directives / 2022 Directives

22-004 Suspension of Video and Audio Retention Policies


23-003 Custody Force Investigations Team
22-005 Updated Procedures for the Use of the Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW)

Custody Directive: 22-004                                                                                               Date: May 9, 2022

Issued For: Custody Operations

SUSPENSION OF VIDEO AND AUDIO RETENTION POLICIES

PURPOSE

The purpose of this Custody Operations Directive is to suspend Department and Division video and audio retention policies and order all Custody Operations personnel to preserve all video and/or audio recordings until the suspension of retention policies is lifted.

ORDER

The State of California Attorney General has directed the California Department of Justice (DOJ) to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. This investigation triggers important legal obligations, including preserving all potentially relevant materials in response to this investigation and/or reasonably anticipated litigation.

Accordingly, to avoid any spoliation of potential evidence, Custody Operations personnel shall retain all video and audio recordings presently in their possession. Until further notice, all normal policies regarding video and/or audio retention or destruction shall be suspended. Personnel shall not alter, remove, or modify any video or audio recordings in their possession.

This mandate also extends to, but is not limited to, any video or audio recordings on any County and/or Department issued computer, laptop, or handheld electronic device. It also extends to video and/or audio recordings from any device, including personal devices, used in the scope of employment.

The existence of copies elsewhere or identical copies in possession of third parties (i.e. contract attorneys) will not excuse any destruction of video or audio recordings.

Additionally, if any employees leave the Sheriff’s Department’s employment during this investigation, unit commanders shall take the necessary steps to protect and preserve the evidence retained by that employee.

Questions regarding this directive should be directed to Custody Support Services Bureau[REDACTED TEXT].