In most cases, no. Dash cams are legal in the U.S., and typically fall under the category of video recording devices.
There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as in California, where it is illegal to record any conversation without the consent of all parties involved.
If a police officer asks you to turn off your dash cam, it’s best to comply with their request. However, you should always ask why they want you to turn it off, and document the interaction if possible.
If you feel your rights were violated in any way, you can contact an attorney or file a complaint with the department’s internal affairs division.
Can The Police Confiscate Your Dash Cam?
The short answer is yes, the police can confiscate your dash cam if they have a warrant or if they reasonably suspect that it contains evidence of a crime.
However, in most cases, the police will only seize a dash cam if it is absolutely necessary and they will typically return the device once they have extracted any relevant information.
It is important to note that the police cannot simply take your dash cam without probable cause or a warrant. If they try to do so, you may be able to challenge the seizure in court.
Additionally, even if the police do have a warrant, they must still follow proper procedures for seizing and searching electronic devices like dash cams.
Also read: Does Police Want Dashcam Footage?
What If The Police Takes My Dash Cam?
If the police take your dash cam, you should immediately contact an attorney.
Depending on the circumstances, it may be possible to get the dash cam back or to challenge the seizure in court.
An experienced attorney will be able to advise you of your rights and help you protect your interests.