CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – The Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department has updated its Body Worn Camera policy and will now release body worn camera footage of critical incidents within seven business days. The policy update aligns with nationwide best practices regarding the release of public information. The updated policy is a step toward strengthening trust between residents and law enforcement.

“The community deserves timely and accurate information, and the updated policy is a step toward strengthening trust between residents and deputies,” said Sheriff Harold Pretel. “By streamlining our procedures, we ensure that information is consistent and available when it matters most.”

Since being appointed, Sheriff Harold Pretel has made it his priority to ensure that all departmental policies and procedures uphold transparency and accountability. The update to the Body Worn Camera policy ensures that information on critical and high-profile incidents be released promptly and within a reasonable time.

Any records covered under the Confidential Law Enforcement Investigatory Record statute may be exempt from disclosure. Some requests for body worn camera, and other video and audio recordings may require more time for release based on volume, and the need for legal redactions.

Read the full policy here.