KVAL News appeals EPD public records denial
EUGENE, Ore. -- On Nov. 16, KVAL News requested a copy of the Taser camera video from Officer Judd Warden's Taser used on a Chinese student last September.
Three weeks later on Dec. 7, the Eugene Police Department denied the request.
Melinda Kletzok, EPD Public Information Officer wrote, "Based on the request from the student, the City is denying your request for a copy of the TaserCam. When the District Attorney reviewed the question of whether the police report for the incident should be provided, the DA concluded that personal identifying information should be redacted to protect the personal privacy of the students. Upon receipt of your request for a copy of the TaserCam, the City checked with the attorney for the student as to whether the student had any objection to the release of the video. After conferring with her client, the attorney informed the City that her client did object to the release of the TaserCam. Based on the personal privacy exemption, the City is denying your request."
KVAL News appealed to the Eugene Police Department's public records denial under ORS192.410 by submitting a letter to Chief Deputy District Attorney Patty Perlow on Dec. 7. The appeal states, "The city's argument is the student wishes to maintain privacy and therefore would rather the video not be released. KVAL News agrees with that request and would blur the identity of the student to maintain his privacy. The student was never charged with a crime nor arrested so we will adhere to our ongoing policy to protect his identity. There is public concern surrounding this incident and KVAL News feels it is important that the video be made available to Eugene citizens."
Perlow confirmed receipt of the appeal letter and wrote, "Under Oregon Public Records law, the District Attorney has seven days to review the request and issue and opinion. Given that the request was made via e-mail, I will assume that the opinion may be issued by e-mail as well."
KVAL News also suggested to the Lane County District Attorney's office that the Eugene Police Department could conceal the identity of the student involved through blurring the video before it is released to the public.
