Police Department in Michigan Expands Use of Body Cameras After Successful Trial Period
The Saginaw Police Department is self-funding the purchase of 10 additional cameras after it was given 12 last year through a federal grant.
Police Chief Robert Ruth called the body cameras "one of the best things we have ever done."
SAGINAW, Mich. — After a successful trail period last year, the Saginaw Police Department is ready to equip all of its city police officers with body cameras.
MLive reports that city council approved the purchase of 10 additional body cameras on Monday which will be added to the existing 12 that the police department already has.
Last year’s trial run, which started last summer, was so successful that the department is going to self-fund the $4,045.86 for the 10 cameras. The previous 12 were funded through a federal grant.
Police Chief Robert Ruth says the department has embraced the body cameras. “It gives accountability to the citizens and the police department,” he says.
Check Out Next: Indiana Senate Passes Bill Allowing Police to Withhold Release of Body Cam, Dashboard Cam Video
Ruth says the 12 cameras were not enough to cover every officer on every shift because of the need to recharge the cameras, according to the report.
The body cameras have already helped resolve citizen complaints and been used to provide evidence in criminal cases. However, Ruth says the officers cannot have the cameras on for their entire shift because of video storage limitations.
“They’ve been working out really well,” he said. “I think this is one of the best things we have ever done.”
If you enjoyed this article and want to receive more valuable industry content like this, click here to sign up for our FREE digital newsletters!
Related Content
Security Is Our Business, Too
For professionals who recommend, buy and install all types of electronic security equipment, a free subscription to Commercial Integrator + Security Sales & Integration is like having a consultant on call. You’ll find an ideal balance of technology and business coverage, with installation tips and techniques for products and updates on how to add to your bottom line.
A FREE subscription to the top resource for security and integration industry will prove to be invaluable.
