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Ridgecrest police put body cameras into use; chief says every on-duty officer carries a camera
Summary
The police department told council that body-worn cameras are now in use for patrol officers; the chief said recordings are available for review and officers completed training.
Ridgecrest Police Department officials told the City Council on March 13 that body-worn cameras have been deployed for patrol officers and that training on use is complete.
The police chief said the cameras have been "up and running for the last few days," that patrol officers now go out with cameras, and that the department has already used footage to review incidents and assist in public explanations. The chief added, "The cameras don't get muted on calls. We have nothing to hide," and said officers have given positive feedback about the new equipment.
Council members and the chief said information-technology staff played a key role in getting the system operational, including cabling and download capabilities. The chief said vehicle installations will take additional months because each patrol car must be outfitted.
Council members thanked the department and community members who provided input during the procurement and implementation process.
