Opinion ID: 2621622
Heading Depth: 1
Heading Rank: 5

Heading: Restrictions on the videotape

Text: We acknowledge that each factual situation must be addressed by the district court on a case-by-case basis; however, defense counsel must adhere to these strict limitations regarding their copy of the videotape: (1) the defendant cannot possess a copy of the videotape; however, the defendant may view it with counsel in preparing the defense; (2) counsel cannot make additional copies of the videotape; (3) only the attorneys, legal staff, defendants, an audio/video technician, and expert witnesses may view the videotape; (4) the attorneys must keep the videotape safe at their place of business; (5) no one may mail or transport the videotape by any third-party commercial carriers; (6) no one may transport the videotape across state lines without a written court order; and (7) (after trial) at the conclusion of the case, defense counsel must promptly return the copy directly to the prosecutor who will destroy it. Defense counsel is an officer of the court and is responsible for the videotape and its safekeeping. The district court may impose greater restrictions based on the circumstances. The audio/video technician may make enhanced copies of specific portions of the videotape for trial purposes, but shall not retain a copy for any reason.