County approves Axon body camera system to enhance law enforcement and prosecution efficiency

The Emery County Commission meeting on April 15, 2025, focused on the approval of new body cameras and in-car camera systems for local law enforcement. The commission discussed the selection of Axon as the preferred vendor for these technologies, citing their ability to meet the county's needs effectively and the positive feedback from other agencies using their products.

The current in-car cameras, referred to as dash cams, are outdated and cumbersome to operate, requiring significant time for data downloading and management. The new system is expected to streamline this process, allowing the county attorney's office to access video evidence directly from their desktops, significantly reducing the time spent on evidence retrieval.

Commission members emphasized the benefits of body cameras for both law enforcement and community safety. The cameras are designed to enhance accountability and improve training for officers. The discussion highlighted a shift in perspective among veteran officers, who now recognize the value of body cameras in protecting both themselves and the community.

The financial aspect of the project was also addressed, with a five-year contract costing approximately $116,000 for the body cameras. The commission noted that initial costs would be lower as they acquire necessary equipment and set up user access for evidence collection.

Overall, the meeting underscored a commitment to modernizing law enforcement tools in Emery County, aiming to improve operational efficiency and enhance public trust through increased transparency. The commission plans to move forward with the approval of the Axon contract, marking a significant step in upgrading the county's law enforcement capabilities.