Claims violation of privacy
CHENEY – A local woman shared concerns of personal privacy with city council during the Nov. 28 meeting, and she was referring to a video posted to the Cheney Police Department social media page.
The video posted Nov. 13 shows body cam footage of police providing Narcan to an individual (who is blurred in the video) having an overdose on Nov. 7 at approximately 3:50 a.m.
Narcan is a medication that can reverse the effects of opioid overdoses. The individual was saved in this situation, then transported to an area hospital and connected with treatment resources.
However, some people found the video to be too graphic for public display including Cheney resident Corinna Donnerberg.
“I am here to express my concern about the nature of content posted by the Cheney Police Facebook page,” Donnerberg told council. “I’m most concerned about a post from Nov. 13 that shows a person experiencing a medical emergency.”
“I’m shocked and appalled they chose to post such a video of a community member, and asked CPD if they had obtained consent from the individual shown and didn’t receive a response.”
She also asked why police chose to share the video, as she said it could potentially be traumatic for an individual or their loved ones to see the content posted all over social media.
The department responded, saying there is importance in showing the reality of a situation, because it can help to educate people. The department also said it can help raise awareness about Narcan, and how it can help save lives.
“The footage serves as a powerful testament to the critical role that Narcan plays in saving lives,” the department commented. “And underscores the importance of having access to life-saving medication.”
The department said they did take privacy and dignity into consideration, but educating people through showing reality.
According to the department, they also utilized professional services to go through the video and make adequate redactions to ensure the individual’s privacy.
The department said their goal is to remain sensitive and respectful to individuals while still being open and transparent in their practices.
Donnerberg also spoke of some different substance abuse resources and resources for Narcan, saying the department didn’t include them in their post.
She also still questioned why the choice was made.
“Is it necessary to show graphic footage of a community member in distress to educate the public and raise awareness,” Donnerberg asked. “It’s such a violation of privacy and basic human decency.”
Responding to Donnerberg’s question in the post thread, the department said, “We are continuously evaluating our practices and procedures to ensure that our approach is sensitive and respectful while still meeting our commitment to transparency and education. Your feedback is important to us, and we will take your concerns into account as we consider our future communications and sharing of sensitive content.”
Matthew graduated from West Virginia University-Parkersburg in 2011 with a journalism degree. He's an award-winning photographer and enjoys writing stories about people.
Reader Comments(0)