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Sen. Akshar Secures Funding for Norwich Police Department Body Camera Technology to Maximize Safety, Productivity, and Transparency
June 9, 2017
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ISSUE:
- Police-Civilian Relations
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(NORWICH) On Friday, Norwich Police Chief Rodney Marsh provided a demonstration to Senator Fred Akshar, Mayor Christine Carnrike and members of the media of the Norwich Police Department's newest upgrade, 20 new officer body cameras to increase transparency and accountability while improving relationships between law enforcement and the community.
“Our community is fortunate to have a strong and supportive relationship with law enforcement and emergency services,” said Senator Fred Akshar. “I want to make sure I do my part as state senator to help strengthen that relationship, increase transparency and give our police and emergency services the tools they need to better protect and serve our community. These grants are about helping protect our families, but they also help keep taxes low by easing the burden on local government. That savings is passed on to the taxpayers across the 52nd Senate District.”
Officers began utilizing the body cameras on patrol and in the field earlier this year. While the cameras are always on and rolling footage, the officer maintains control over when the camera starts to record and save footage. Once the officer activates the body camera, high definition audio and visual footage starts to record, and the previous 30 seconds of film before activation can be retrieved. Police departments all over the country are implementing body cameras because they provide accountability and peace of mind. Footage can be referenced when questions of fact come up, which helps build a sense of trust between the community and law enforcement, according to Chief Marsh.
Chief Marsh also noted “The new body-worn cameras will assist with the documentation and collection of evidence and they may help to show opportunities for police training. The cameras will also assist the District Attorney’s Office with the prosecution of cases.”
Funding for the equipment was secured through a $50,000 Public Protection Grant secured by Senator Fred Akshar in the 2016-17 State Budget.
The City of Norwich Mayor, Christine Carnrike said “The City of Norwich appreciates the dedication of and commitment by Senator Akshar in securing the funding for body cameras for our police officers. This new equipment and the technology that goes with the body cams are a necessary and vital tool for law enforcement personnel today. With limited resources available in our city’s public safety budget, we did not have the funds for necessary body cams. When Senator Akshar reached out offering to help our community, Chief Marsh and I suggested body cams and the Senator delivered. We have implemented policies and procedures for proper use of the body cams. Body cams will protect our community members and visitors as well as our officers. The technology promotes efficiency in preparation and accuracy of police reports, actual audio/video data stored for future use in court and provides another safety measure for our officers and the general public. As Mayor, I cannot thank Senator Akshar enough for his support and commitment to Norwich and the 52nd District.”
Grants are administered through the New York State Department of Criminal Justice Services.
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