RTK Request

In Pennsylvania, obtaining police body camera footage is governed by Act 22 of 2017, not the standard Right-to-Know Law, and it’s challenging due to strict requirements. Here’s a direct breakdown:

Can You Request It? Yes, but you must submit a written request within 60 days of the incident to the agency’s Open Records Officer via personal delivery or certified mail. Include the date, time, location, incident details, and your connection to it. If the incident was inside a residence, list everyone present or explain why you can’t provide this info.
Why You Might Not Get It: Footage is often denied if it contains evidence, confidential information, or victim details that can’t be redacted. For criminal matters, the prosecuting attorney must approve release. Agencies have broad discretion to withhold footage.
Other Details: Agencies may charge reasonable fees for copies. If denied, you can appeal to the Court of Common Pleas within 30 days.

In practice, these restrictions make it very difficult to obtain body camera footage. For more details, check www.openrecords.pa.gov or consult a lawyer.

Requester

First Name *

Last Name *

E-mail Address *

Phone Number *

Address

Street Address *

Apartment / Suite Number

City *

State *

Zip Code *

Records Requested

Enter a detailed description of your request below.

Description *

Include dates, subjects, names, or any specific identifiers to help process the request.

Do you want copies? *

Do you want to inspect the records? *

Do you want certified copies of records? *

Legal U.S. Resident *

By selecting "Yes", I affirm that my full name and contact information is true and correct, and that I am a legal resident of the United States. I understand that a false affirmation may result in the denial of my request and the dismissal of any appeal filed with the Office of Open Records.

Agree *

I understand that submitting a false report is punishable by law.

Leave this field blank