This policy regulates the use of Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) on campus for the purposes of safety and security. The policy applies to all personnel and property of the college in the use of CCTV to capture, record and review images in public areas on the Bates College campus.  

Campus Safety is authorized to install and operate CCTV cameras in various public locations on campus to enhance campus safety while respecting the privacy of members of the campus community. It is a violation of this policy to install unattended CCTV or other kinds of video recording devices in public areas without approval from the Director of Campus Safety. 

What is the purpose of the Bates CCTV system?

The purpose of the CCTV system is to maintain the health, safety, and security of the campus community. CCTV cameras are in public areas to assist in detecting, deterring and responding to unlawful or unsafe activity.

CCTV will be used in a manner consistent with existing College policies, including the Equal Opportunity, Non-discrimination, and Anti-Harassment Policy.

When will CCTV camera footage be viewed or reviewed?

Cameras may be used to aid college officials in responding to a call for service, checking locations where there was an active security alarm, maintaining the safety of individuals and property, or further investigations into security-related issues reported to Campus Safety.

Where are there CCTV cameras on campus?

CCTV cameras are located in various public locations around campus including athletic fields/spaces; academic and operational building entrances and exits; critical infrastructure locations; and residence hall/house entrances and exits.

Are CCTV cameras monitored?

While Campus Safety is staffed at all times with an Officer who has access to CCTV footage, cameras are not monitored continuously under normal operating conditions. In the event that an Officer does observe possible security risks, criminal, or unsafe activity, they will take appropriate action to dispatch a Campus Safety Officer to the area.

In what circumstances will CCTV footage be released?

Requests for the release of any CCTV recordings should be directed to the Director of Campus Safety.

Subpoenas, warrants, court orders and other requests for the release of any CCTV recording related to a civil or criminal investigation or legal proceeding should be directed to the Director of Campus Safety who will confer with General Counsel.

Requests for the release of any CCTV recording for matters unrelated to a civil or criminal investigation or legal proceeding should be directed to the Director of Campus Safety, who will have the authority to respond on behalf of the College except in the following circumstances:

• Release of CCTV footage involving students will require the approval of the Dean of Students and the Vice President for Information and Library Services.

• Release of CCTV footage involving employees will require the approval of the Assistant Vice President for Human Resources and the Vice President for Information and Library Services.

How long is recording video media stored?

Recording video media will be retained for a period not to exceed 14 days and will then be erased, unless retention for a longer period of time as part of a civil or criminal investigation or legal proceeding, or other bona fide use as approved by the Director of Campus Safety, is required.

Video media will be stored in a secure location with access by authorized personnel only.

Who is responsible for the CCTV Use Policy?

The Director of Campus Safety has the responsibility to authorize all CCTV use at Bates College in consultation with the Vice President for Information and Library Services and the Dean of Students.

The Department of Campus Safety is authorized to oversee and coordinate the use of CCTV camera equipment at the College. Campus Safety has the primary responsibility for disseminating and implementing policy and procedures.

Requests for release of footage will be managed as indicated in the “In what circumstances will CCTV footage be released?” section.

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**Note: Images and any related data collected by CCTV are the property of Bates College.**