July 30th, 2025

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Law enforcement agencies are encountering a sharp increase in public records requests, particularly those involving video footage such as body-worn cameras, dash-cams, and surveillance recordings. This trend reflects a broader movement toward transparency, but it also places significant demands on staff time, budgets, and operational workflows. 

Platforms like GovQuest and CaseGuard Studio help agencies address these challenges with structured, technology-supported processes.  

A Look at the Numbers

Recent data highlights the growing pressure on agencies:

• Public records requests have risen 74% since 2018.
• Requests for video content specifically are up 98%.
• Agencies report spending 112% more time processing requests than five years ago.
• One hour of video can take 5 to 10 hours to redact manually.
• The average file size tied to public video requests has increased 333%.

As video continues to dominate records requests, agencies need tools that support both compliance and resource management.

Managing Requests and Cost Recovery with GovQuest

GovQuest provides a secure online portal for agencies to handle video records requests from submission through delivery. Key functions include:

• Logging and tracking each request with automated audit trails
• Customizable workflows for routing, redaction time tracking, and communication
• Secure, PCI-compliant online payment tools that allow agencies to charge for redaction labor, formatting time, and related processing tasks

This capability offers a path to recover staff time spent fulfilling labor-intensive requests, helping departments manage growing workloads without overextending their budgets.

Redacting Video with CaseGuard Studio

CaseGuard Studio assists agencies in preparing video footage for release while ensuring compliance with privacy regulations:

• Uses AI to automatically detect and redact sensitive elements like faces, license plates, and screens
• Supports audio redaction, transcription, and translation
• Allows batch processing of large volumes of files, maintaining audit trails and exemption documentation

These tools enable staff to process sensitive footage efficiently and with consistent documentation.

How the Workflow Comes Together

A public video records request is submitted through GovQuest.

• Staff redacts the footage using CaseGuard Studio.
• Time spent on redaction is logged in GovQuest.
• Any applicable fees are calculated and collected through GovQuest’s secure payment system.
• The redacted video is securely delivered via GovQuest’s portal.

This integrated workflow helps agencies document compliance, protect sensitive information, and recover time and costs tied to fulfillment.

Considerations for Agencies

With public interest in video transparency continuing to grow, departments may benefit from:

• Reviewing redaction policies and staffing needs
• Implementing structured processes for cost tracking and request fulfillment
• Training personnel in video handling and exemption documentation

Systems like GovQuest and CaseGuard provide practical, scalable support for agencies navigating the complex and increasing demands for public video records.

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Discovery Webinar – Streamline Your Public Records Requests Workflow

Discover how GovQuest and CaseGuard work in tandem to streamline your public records request workflow. Join us on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, from 1:00 to 2:00 PM EST for a live demonstration—see firsthand how agencies are saving time, recovering costs, and delivering transparency with confidence.

Register Today – Seats are Limited

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Why Choose PRI?

PRI equips special jurisdiction law enforcement agencies with expert training and guidance to master public records compliance. Whether you’re new to compliance or seeking to enhance your processes, our curated training classes and GovQuest platform support your success.