Blair Co.R.Crim.Proc. 112 Recordings
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Overview of Local Rule
The Blair County Court of Common Pleas has adopted a new local rule (No. 58 of 2018) governing publicity, broadcasting, and recording in the 24th Judicial District. This rule applies to all hearing rooms and courtrooms, as well as the areas immediately surrounding their entrances and exits.
Key Regulations
- Prohibited Recordings: No sound, video, photographs, or motion pictures may be taken of any judicial proceeding without prior permission from the presiding judge or hearing officer.
- Device Policy: All electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, laptops, cameras) must be powered off—not just muted—while inside courtrooms. This applies to the public, parties, witnesses, and attorneys.
- Exceptions: The device restriction does not apply to Deputy Sheriffs. Permission to activate devices must be obtained in advance from the court.
- Restricted Subjects: Recording or photographing parties, witnesses, jurors, police officers, or judges within the courthouse is strictly prohibited without prior permission.
- Transmission: Broadcasting or transmitting testimony via electronic means during a proceeding is strictly prohibited without permission.
Penalties for Violation
Violating this order constitutes contempt of court and may result in:
- Confiscation of the device.
- Deletion of offending data or material.
- A fine of up to $1,000. 00.
- Imprisonment of up to six (6) months.
Enforcement and Confiscation
- Authorized Personnel: The presiding judge, hearing officer, District Court Administrator, and the Sheriff of Blair County (or their deputies) are authorized to enforce this order.
- Confiscation: Authorized personnel may take immediate possession of any offending device.
- Forfeiture: Any confiscated device not claimed by its lawful owner within seven (7) business days will be deemed forfeited to the County of Blair.
Effective Date
The rule became effective thirty (30) days after its publication in the Pennsylvania Bulletin and on the Blair County website.