In a recent government meeting, concerns were raised regarding the retention policy for security camera footage in downtown Shreveport, particularly in light of a public information request for footage from an event on May 5, 2024. The requestor, a council member, expressed frustration after receiving only four short video clips from the Real Time Crime Center, which were recorded before the requested timeframe of 10 PM to 5 AM.

The deputy chief clarified that the city’s policy allows for video footage to be stored for only three to five days unless tagged as evidence. This policy has raised alarms among council members, who argue that such a short retention period is inadequate for investigations, especially in high-traffic areas during significant events. The deputy chief noted that while the Real Time Crime Center is effective in monitoring incidents in real-time, the current storage limitations could hinder future investigations if footage is not preserved.

Council members highlighted a discrepancy in video retention policies, pointing out that bars and restaurants are required to keep footage for 30 days, while the police department retains footage for a much shorter period. This inconsistency prompted calls for a review of the current policy, with suggestions to extend the retention period to better serve public safety and investigative needs.

The discussion underscored the balance between effective law enforcement and privacy concerns, as the deputy chief acknowledged the importance of addressing citizen apprehensions regarding surveillance. The meeting concluded with a commitment to revisit the video storage policy, aiming to enhance the department's ability to respond to incidents while ensuring compliance with privacy standards.