The Overland Park Police Department updated its operational protocols for releasing video evidence to the public. The revised policy, Standard Operating Procedure 2160, establishes new guidelines for releasing body-worn camera footage following officer-involved critical incidents. This update underscores the department’s commitment to building trust and maintaining open lines of communication with the Overland Park community.
The primary goal of the revised SOP 2160 is to foster transparency and accountability. Under the new protocols, the Department aims to make footage of critical events available to the public while respecting the judicial process.
“Trust is the foundation of effective policing. We recognize that in moments of crisis, the community expects and deserves clarity,” said Chief Jokerst. “SOP 2160 is a proactive step toward meeting those expectations, ensuring we remain accountable to the community we serve while protecting the integrity of the judicial process.”
While the initiative prioritizes public access, SOP 2160 is carefully crafted to respect the legal and ethical complexities inherent in critical incidents. The policy balances the need for transparency with measures to protect the following:
- Investigative Integrity: Ensuring that the release of evidence does not compromise active criminal or administrative investigations.
- Sensitivities: handling graphic content with appropriate discretion and care for the families involved.
By prioritizing transparency and accountability, the OPPD is reinforcing a culture that will define our department for years to come. OPPD remains dedicated to reviewing and refining its policies to better serve the community’s safety and interests, and it collaborated with partner organizations to gather feedback on the proposed changes. As part of our commitment to transparency, Chief Jokerst proactively reached out to the ACLU and the Johnson County District Attorney for feedback and input through the revision process.
The revised SOP 2160 represents a pivotal shift in how the Overland Park Police Department navigates the intersection of public information and due process. By integrating the perspectives of legal experts, civil rights advocates and community stakeholders, the department has created a framework that synergizes transparency and public safety. Moving forward, these guidelines will serve as the standard for maintaining an informed and engaged community, ensuring transparency and trust and a consistent practice in every critical interaction.
Learn more about Overland Park Police Department transparency at opkansas.org/OPPDTransparency.