The Revised Code of Washington (RCW) requires that SNOCOM keeps recording of 911 telephone conversations for 90 (ninety) days.

The disclosure of SNOCOM records will be governed by appropriate state and local regulations. Public records subject to disclosure may have identifiable details deleted to the extent necessary to prevent an unreasonable invasion of privacy. Any deletions made shall be explained in writing.

LEGAL BASIS:

• RCW 42.17.250 Public Records
• WAC 246.100.016 Medical Confidentiality
• RCW 70.24.022(3) Sexually Transmitted Disease Confidentiality

Requests for Inspection and/or Copying of Public Records
Requests must be in writing and define the records being sought with reasonable specificity. Any requests that are too generalized will be returned to the requesting individual for further clarification.

Records Exempt From Public Inspection and Copying

1. Witnesses to or victims of crime or who file complaints with investigative, law enforcement agencies if disclosure would endanger any person's life, physical safety, or property (RCW 42.17.310).
2. Invasion of privacy if disclosure of information about the person would be highly offensive and is not of legitimate concern to the public (RCW 42.17.255).
NOTE: Public records may be used if the party/ies affected have timely notice and the record does not unreasonably invade personal privacy (RCW 42.17.260(6)(b)).
3. HIV/AIDS medical status (RCW 70.24.105).
4. Patient medical information (WAC 246-100-016).
5. Sexual assault victims under 18 years of age (RCW 42.17.310).
6. Disclosure of sensitive information contained in SNOCOM employee personnel files (RCW 42.17.310).

Public Requests for Cassette Duplication and/or Inspection of Master Tapes
Public requests from private attorneys, agencies or businesses doing business for profit, Public Defenders Office or private citizens must be made in writing on business letterhead stationary when applicable. A signed court order for the request is desirable.

Charges for Copying
A $20.00 processing fee for the first hour or any part of the first hour and $20.00 for each hour or any part of succeeding hours thereafter for copying such tapes. An additional charge of $2.50 will be made for each cassette. (RCW 42.17.300)

Mail a printed copy of the request form with a check for $20.00 dollars US to:

SNOCOM
ATTN: Tape Request
PO BOX 180
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043-0180