Body Cameras

About

During the 2016-2017 fiscal year budget process, the Cody City Council approved funding to replace the Cody Police Department’s antiquated in-car camera system with an integrated body-worn and in-car camera system in the amount of $140,000. To assist with those project funds, the Cody Police Department utilized a $50,000 US Department of Justice grant to implement the system.

The goal of this project was to enhance police-community interactions, build continual citizen trust, and demonstrate the Department’s commitment to transparency.

The integrated camera system will document community-minded policing that officers engage in daily and increase the effectiveness of judicial processes through accurate, high-quality audio and video documentation during traffic stops and other enforcement actions.

Community involvement was crucial to develop a body camera policy that builds on the existing positive relationship between law enforcement officers and community members. Citizen engagement tools included community surveys, public forums, and social media.

WatchGuardBodyWornCamera2_cropped

Goals

  1. Enhance the welfare and safety of Cody Police Officers and Cody citizens.

  2. Improve the effectiveness of judicial processes through audio and video documentation of interactions between officers, citizens, offenders, and witnesses.

  3. Reduce the frequency of officer complaints and potential liability claims.

  4. Improve the public perception of the Cody Police Department’s operational transparency.

  5. Establish a long-term body-worn camera program that remains financially sustainable, technologically current, and operationally effective.