Police body cameras protect citizens and police officers
Whether it’s a routine traffic stop or a physical arrest, police body cameras keep officers — and the citizens they interact with — accountable for their actions.
On the surface, it might seem difficult to make the case for police body cameras in Moscow.
This is not a major metropolitan area ridden with daily violent crime and the Moscow Police Department has established an excellent track record of following proper procedure and maintaining transparency. Moscow also doesn’t have a big city budget, and the upfront costs for body camera hardware can be expensive.
The short-term costs might be steep, but these cameras would increase accountability and transparency for both police officers and the general public, as well as protect both parties from a misrepresentation of incidents.
Not only do body cameras protect citizens from police abuse, but they also protect police officers from citizen abuse. Body cameras have the ability to capture a hard tackle by a police officer or an unprovoked attack by a citizen.
When people know they are being recorded, it’s no surprise police officers and citizens are more likely to act on their best behavior.
With the success of police body cameras in Pullman over the past two years, it is clear body cameras are effective in creating a safer environment for police and the general public.
Currently, the department only uses audio pocket recorders and dashboard cameras, and while these are positive elements, the up-close video and audio provided by a body camera is a step above.
Luckily, if MPD were to receive the funds for the body cameras, they would mostly be used as a preventative and protective measure.
While police departments around the country are criticized for excessive force and racial profiling, Moscow officers have developed a strong reputation of fairness and equality within the community.
In a digital, image-based world, body cameras are slowly becoming the great equalizer in courtrooms. Video from these cameras can provide critical information and set the record straight when it comes to police interaction with the public.
It’s encouraging to see the department advocate for a body camera system that would surely promote accountability from within.
The Moscow City Council should step up this summer and approve the funds for police body cameras.
Body cameras are a critical part of a 21st century police force, and the City of Moscow should do its part to make them a reality for the MPD.
–RT