Del City approves Axon body‑camera agreement to update police equipment

Del City’s council voted unanimously July 6 to enter an agreement with Axon Enterprises to equip the police department with new body‑worn cameras and related technology. Police leadership told the council the package includes 42 body cameras, cloud‑based evidence storage with redaction capability, virtual‑reality training systems and a patrol‑car drone system intended for rapid deployment from patrol vehicles.

The police chief described the contract as “a significant technology update” that will replace outdated cameras and taser equipment, provide periodic refreshes every 2½ years, and add features such as live streaming from officers and a community upload tool to preserve metadata. During Q&A the chief said the patrol‑car drone is designed to be stored in a patrol vehicle and deployed immediately, and that the contract includes training and certification for staff.

A council member moved to approve a purchase under state contract SW1057A for the equipment and services. The motion as read specified two initial payments — $81,603.70 in August 2026 and $81,603.72 in January 2027 — and said the agreement’s term may extend through January 2036, with all future payments contingent on annual appropriation. The motion was seconded and carried on a unanimous recorded vote.

Council members asked about the number of drones (the chief said the city will receive one initially and another every 2½ years) and whether the Tasers would be replaced (the chief confirmed they would be updated to current models). The chief also said refreshes will help keep equipment current and that the package is intended to improve officer safety, evidence management and community‑facing tools.

The council’s approval authorizes the mayor to execute any documents necessary to finalize the agreement subject to future appropriation.