How to Request Bodycam Footage in Rhode Island

A practical, jurisdiction-specific walkthrough for filing a public-records request for police body-worn camera video in Rhode Island (RI). This guide is informational and not legal advice.

Governing law

Rhode Island Access to Public Records Act (R.I.G.L. § 38-2-1 et seq.)

Who to send your request to

Public body designee. If the incident involved multiple agencies (city PD plus state troopers plus sheriff), file parallel requests with each.

What to include in the request

The exact date, approximate time window, and location of the incident.
The case, incident, or CAD number if you have it.
Names or badge numbers of involved officers if known.
A clear statement invoking the state's public-records statute.
Your preferred delivery format (electronic file, DVD, thumb drive).
A fee ceiling — e.g. "please contact me before incurring charges above $25."

Fees

$0.15/page after first 200 pages; $15/hour staff time after first hour

Response timeline

10 business days; 20-day extension permitted

If your request is denied

Attorney General or Superior Court. Ask for the specific statutory exemption cited; boilerplate "ongoing investigation" denials are frequently reversed on appeal.