Note: The DearEsq free 'ask a lawyer' site is offered as a free informational service to the public and is not intended as legal advice. Laws vary from state-to-state, and in addition every situation is unique, and relevant facts may not be known. The answer to the question posed below may not apply to in your state or to your situation. For legal advice in your state and your situation you should consult with an attorney in your state who is familiar with the rules and laws in your state.
“An item was stolen out of my vehicle in a parking garage in New York City. I contacted the garage and asked to see their surveillance video, but was denied of this request. Do I have the right to see this video? What are my options in pursuing the matter?”
Question: You should file a police report about the theft and let the police know that the garage has videotapes that may contain evidence, but that the garage has thus far refused to show them to you. The police can then request them, or get a warrant for them if necessary. The garage may have other privacy or liability issues that it is concerned about, but it won’t be able to ignore a request from the police. You could certainly sue the garage and demand the videotape be turned over as evidence in the trial, but it would be faster and cheaper to let the police handle this.
