4-217 - Digital Cameras and Digital Information Management System (DIMS)

To provide all MPD members with guidelines for responsibilities, procedures, and the proper use of digital cameras and the Digital Information Management System (DIMS).

All MPD members who have access to a Digital Information Management System (DIMS) download station shall receive training on these systems. Training may include, but not be limited to department policy and directives, and may be electronic or hands-on training.

Member Responsibility

1. Members, other than those equipped with department-approved crime scene equipment, shall use a digital camera to document photographic evidence whenever possible.
2. A separate SD memory card shall be used for each CCN.
3. Members shall download their photographic evidence into a DIMS download station. DIMS download stations are available at each precinct as well as in Property & Evidence.
4. In all cases, members shall document in their report when photographs are taken, and that they have been downloaded into DIMS.
5. Photographic evidence shall be downloaded before the end of the member’s shift. In the event that the member is not able to download the evidence, a supervisor shall download the photographic evidence into DIMS and document the action in CAPRS.
6. Upon successful completion of the download the SD memory card will be formatted by DIMS and will be available for immediate reuse.
7. If the download is not completed due to an error with the download station, the member shall report the error via email to the DIMS support group at dimssupport@minneapolismn.gov. The SD card will not be formatted and should not be used until the photographic evidence is downloaded. The member may use another station to complete the download while the error is being resolved.
8. If a member forgets to place a SD memory card in the camera and uses the camera to document photographic evidence, the entire camera shall be inventoried as Digital Photographic Evidence. The Crime Lab Unit will download any photographic evidence from the camera’s internal memory into DIMS. The camera will then be available for pickup at the Crime Lab.

Viewing Photographic Images from the DIMS Server and Ordering a CD

1. The DIMS server on a City Network computer may be used to access photographic evidence and to request a CD copy of the images.
2. Access to view photographic evidence is based on the user’s rank and assignment. If a user requires a different level of access, a request shall be emailed to the DIMS support group at dimssupport@minneapolismn.gov.

Digital Camera/SD Card and DIMS Download Station Repair, Replacement and Supplies

1. Precinct Inspectors or their designees are responsible for maintaining an adequate supply of SD memory cards for the digital cameras.
2. SD memory cards may be obtained from MPD Stores by completing Supply Requisition form (MP-4022), authorized by a Lieutenant or above.
3. Digital cameras in need of repair are the responsibility of precinct Inspectors or their designees.
4. Precinct Inspectors or their designees are responsible for ensuring that the download stations and accessories, i.e. keyboard and mouse, are properly maintained.

Definitions

Refer to the Commonly Used Terms page for general definitions.