DeSoto Parish jurors approve dash cameras for selected fleet with $7,000 budget amendment
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Summary
The administrative committee approved installing forward‑facing and interior dash cameras on dump trucks, roll‑off trucks and permanent officer vehicles after staff cited an Acadian Total Security quote and an estimated 5% reduction in insurance premiums; jurors amended the budget by $7,000 to cover recurring costs.
The DeSoto Parish Police Jury administrative committee voted to equip selected parish vehicles with dash cameras and to amend the budget to cover recurring costs.
Staff presented a quote from Acadian Total Security and said the system includes forward‑facing and interior cameras; the jury was told the cameras would provide recorded evidence that can reduce litigation exposure and help with claims defenses. Staff estimated the change could yield about a 5% reduction in insurance premiums (the presenter cited current premiums at roughly $15,000) and described a one‑time purchase/installation cost plus an ongoing charge of about $7,000 that required a budget amendment.
Jurors discussed limiting the program to the specified vehicles (dump trucks, roll‑off trucks and permanent officer vehicles) rather than all parish fleet vehicles, noting that including every vehicle would substantially increase cost. Commissioners also asked whether contracted trucking companies would be required to install cameras; staff said that requirement is not in current contracts and would require a future policy change or contract amendment.
An alternate motion to amend the budget by $7,000 to cover the recurring camera costs was moved, seconded and carried. One juror indicated they did not vote; the chair announced the motion passed.
