DISQUS

John_B Law enforcement agencies generally videotape such demonstrations as a means of helping to identify any individuals in such crowds that may incite violence or commit other crimes during the otherwise lawful event.

Were someone in the crowd to be attacked (by counter-protesters for example) law enforcement officials would have a greater likelihood of memorializing the act to further any subsequent prosecution.

Other reasons include, but are not limited to: Allowing cops to better counter false claims and false complaints of misconduct. An allegation of misconduct is a serious matter. Before videotaping came into its own, such complaints often came down to one person's word against another's. Law enforcement videography can now provide much needed context for an officer's actions and decisions in the event they are scrutinized by Internal Affairs or Civilian Review Boards at a later date.

Law enforcement videography is also conducted to protect protesters themselves from false allegations that they are violating the law. Groups in opposition to those protesting often allege violations of law against those groups they oppose ("They failed to follow their designated route of march" or "They disturbed my peace with their loudspeakers" or "They blocked traffic at the intersection and unlawfully deprived me of my right to move about freely", etc.). Law Enforcement videography can help disprove any such false allegations.

Hope that helps!