Do I have a choice to refuse being video taped by a police officer?

Q: Do I have a choice to refuse being video taped by an officer?

Some people question if an officer recording you in a situation is a violation to your privacy, or if it is something that you can refuse to allow them to do. However, according to police handbooks and laws across the nation, methods of recording a civilian during an encounter with police is actually perfectly permissible, especially in public places. First of all, in order to be allowed to possess any sort of recording device, officers must file an application to get permission to have an audio or video recorder on hand. The purpose of officers to have recording devices on hand is to not only protect themselves, but to protect civilians rights, as well, for fairness purposes. As we all know, stories can be told in a "he said she said" way, but the truth can always be revealed properly when the situation or encounter is on tape or video for the court to decide who is right and who is wrong. Officers are allowed to record any sort of in-person encounters in public settings. There is no law against allowing anyone of any kind prohibiting them from recording in a public place. Because of this, officers are allowed to record in public situations, because the expectation of privacy in public does not exist. They also are not required to tell the individual that they are being recorded. Because of these facts, the question of refusing an officer to video tape or record a situation would not be valid, especially in public settings. Concerning private settings or video taping on private property, contact your lawyer concerning your specific situation.