Thoughts from Chief Sjolander... Cameras... Sorry for the late post, I took a me day and spent some time on my bike checking out the changing leaves. Sometimes, just a couple hours with no phone, computer, or other gadgets is all I need. So Ive been reading a lot about body cameras lately in the news. Some good are points being made, but I also see a lot of unanswered questions. We have had cameras here since 2008 and while I think they are a very needed item for anyone working with the public like we do, I also see some limitations. We are a small agency and have very limited resources when it comes to items like cameras. We use the Scorpion Micro which cost us around $160.00 per camera. They work well, but have limited storage, are not fancy, and are a little delicate. We have had some stop working and we normally have a extra one on hand just in case. Some of these camera systems are very high tech and can be very expensive. We have used the cameras quit a bit and they have helped our public and us a great deal, now like anything else, they are not perfect. They dont see everything we see and while they can record yelling, cries, etc. they dont catch everything all the time. I feel we have times when we should and should not use cameras. The bottom line is this. We want to do the most good and sometimes having a camera intimidates people who are victims, are wanting to confide in us about certain personal matters, are having a medical concern, etc. We have no policy as of now on our camera use and Im looking for your input on this. I want to hear from you, our public on what you think of us in public safety wearing cameras, when should we use them, when should they be left off, how long should we keep the recordings if its something where courts will not file charges, etc. Please be polite, respect others view points, and lets try to all get along. I hope this does not turn into a cop bashing thread. Im asking for your opinions because I value them, and you. Body cameras bring us into your private world sometimes. Squad cameras record on the streets, our body cameras can record in your home, your business, anywhere we get a call for service and we respond. We know nothing is perfect, but we are willing to listen and I do really value your opinion. Stay safe, Lee
Posted on: Mon, 29 Sep 2014 01:19:06 +0000
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