Learning from Tara’s trial

• On campus, there is potential involvement by both ICPD and UIPD. UIPD has been coming down harder on protesters than ICPD recently and their only oversight is the Board of Regents who answer only to the governor
• UIPD has cameras across campus. They have the ability to Pan, Tilt, and Zoom in real time. In addition to regular cameras, they install temporary cameras for events and are regularly contracted by YAF for events
  • If an officer is near protesters or interacting with protesters in any way, assume their bodycam is on and filming. 
• UIPD surveils “open source social media” and claims they do not have special access to social media; they just have a regular registered account like anyone else. There are a number of individuals they keep tabs on, but they also search specific terms leading up to events, and limit the search results based on posts’ geolocation. 
• Protesters have been identified by their face, build and clothing. Best practice is to cover your hair, face (mask), and identifying marks or tattoos. Some find it helpful to wear nondescript (no logos or identifiable features) black clothing. The reality though is that they have identified people based on their walk, a temporary injury, any means available to them.
• Remember that anytime you are in the street, you are breaking the law. Make your risk assessment and safety plan before attending. Include a mental health plan – a debrief with friends/community after an action is incredibly important.
• They track people back to their cars on campus and have arrested people by running plates so consider parking off campus or in a ramp. They have cameras that track license plates too. 

How bail funds work

• Prairielands Freedom Fund is the general bail fund unless there is one specific to the action you are attending
• Have the phone number on you: (319) 535-2209
• Expect that if you are arrested and are getting bailed out that you may still have to spend the night in jail
• If arrested, ask for your waiver of initial appearance. You may be able to be released earlier. They may deny this request.
  • Initial appearances happen at 8am weekdays at the Johnson County Court House
  • If you are arrested on a Friday night or over a holiday, it is possible you will not be released to until Monday even if you intended on posting bail
• If you use a bailbondsman instead of a bail fund, you will not get your money back even after all court requirements are completed