This article shares vital guidance for anyone trying to obtain police body camera footage or facing false claims in an official report.
⚠️ Disclaimer: We are not lawyers, doctors, or licensed mental health professionals. The information in this article is based on personal experience and is intended for general guidance, education, and empowerment. It is not a substitute for professional legal, medical, or psychological advice. Please consult qualified professionals for support specific to your situation.
Introduction
Unbroken Smile was born out of a nightmare: After calling 911 for help, Brittany Chrishawn was assaulted by police officers, suffering broken teeth, permanent nerve damage, and a false arrest that nearly cost her a decade of freedom. But she fought back — and won.
The Unbroken Smile movement and forthcoming documentary are rooted in resilience, exposure, and transformation. This blog series shares key lessons Brittany learned so others can better navigate — and survive — the justice system.
How to Get Police Body Camera Footage — And What to Do When Police Lie
1. Demand the Body Camera Footage Early
Do not accept any plea deal until you’ve seen the evidence. Brittany’s attorneys tried to convince her to take a deal without showing her the body cam footage. When she finally demanded to see it herself — in writing — she discovered it contradicted the officers’ reports and proved her innocence.
✊ Action: Refuse any deal until you’ve reviewed all evidence. File a formal request for footage and document every interaction with your lawyer.
2. Don’t Let Lawyers Manipulate You
Brittany’s own attorneys tried to convince her that she was guilty, describing footage in misleading ways. But when she saw it herself, she knew they had lied.
⚠️ Warning: Your lawyer works for you. If something doesn’t sit right — say so. Insist on seeing all evidence firsthand.
3. Understand What “Rights” Really Mean
Brittany defines rights simply: You are right — and you must fight for what’s right. The law should support that, but it’s often used to pressure innocent people into plea deals.
🧠 Insight: Exercise your rights by standing firm. Don’t give up your truth for convenience.
4. Know That a Plea Deal Often Waives Your Rights to Evidence
Once you take a plea deal, you may lose your chance to see body camera footage — or to use it in court later.
❌ Don’t Do It: Until you see the footage, don’t agree to anything. Even mental health court or probation can permanently affect your record.
5. Put Everything in Writing
Verbal conversations with your lawyer can be ignored or denied. Document every request and every decision you make.
📝 Pro Tip: After phone calls, follow up with an email summarizing what was discussed. Save and back up every communication.
6. Read the Police Report Closely — Then Compare It to the Footage
Brittany’s police report contradicted the footage. Officers lied — and the video proved it. Many people never think to compare the two.
📄 Review: Check for inconsistencies. These contradictions can make or break your case.
7. Expose the Truth Publicly
Police may lie in their reports, on the news, or in court. But when Brittany released the footage herself, the truth came out. She contacted journalists, influencers, and YouTube auditors — people who document police misconduct and share it publicly.
📢 Tip: Share your evidence. Contact media, auditors, and civil rights organizations. The more eyes on your case, the harder it is for the system to ignore.
8. Learn About YouTube Auditors and Civil Rights Communities
Brittany connected with police auditors — people who legally film and question officers. These activists helped pressure her local police department and supported her story.
📹 Watch for It: Unbroken Smile includes footage from these auditors. You’ll see their impact firsthand.
Final Thoughts
If you’re innocent, do not let fear — or your attorney — push you into a deal before seeing your evidence. Demand your footage. Review the police report for lies. Share the truth. And most of all, never stop fighting for what’s right.
The upcoming Unbroken Smile documentary will show exactly how Brittany proved her innocence and exposed police misconduct — in real time.
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They broke her teeth. But they couldn’t break her smile. Discover more about Brittany Chrishawn at: https://brittanychrishawn.com