Can you tape someone being physically abusive without their knowledge?

[max.gregg]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?
California

If a co-renter in your home has threatened you and used physical aggression in the past, then denied having done so, are you legally allowed to tape them without their knowledge the next time they become physically aggressive?

[dad43]

it's very easy to start up a home video

as for being able to use it in court, i don't know. my roomate had an unruly g/f once. my own g/f caught her on a video phone spitting in my face, and the cop hauled her out about half an hour later. it is my guess that you could do it. there are other people here who are more familiar with CA laws. i know there are states who have a law against phone recordings, but i don't know about video.

[CdwJava]

You cannot generally record someone in their own home without their knowledge.

What exactly do you mean by "physically aggressive"? This may not be a crime if it does not involve criminal threats or an actual battery (i.e. striking or grabbing you). If you have been attacked, call the police. If you are living in fear, move. You can also try and seek a restraining order and ask the court to permit you to mount video surveillance for your protection.

Why stay living with a person who you fear?

- Carl