Milwaukee P.D.

Wisconsin treats body-worn camera footage as a public record, with a strong default toward disclosure. There is a statewide public records framework (Wis. Stat. §§ 19.31–19.39) that presumes openness but allows exemptions and record-by-record balancing. Agency redaction of audio/video content is permitted (and can incur fees) under §19.35(3)(h). The absence of a dedicated BWC statute means there is no blanket ban on releasing footage; disclosure decisions hinge on the specific contents of the recording (privacy interests, ongoing investigations, victim protection, etc.) and the balancing test. Courts have recognized exceptions when strong public policy supports nondisclosure (e.g., certain training or sensitive content) but have otherwise favored disclosure with appropriate redactions. For researchers, start with a public-records request to the agency, be prepared to justify redactions, anticipate possible redaction fees, and consider mandamus if access is denied or delayed. Key sources include the DOJ Public Records Compliance Guide, the DPW v. DOJ decision, and agency-specific guidance (DOJ, DHS, UW, DMV).