Virginia Tech police add body cameras to their uniforms
BLACKSBURG, Va Aug 19 2018 A change that’s designed to promote transparency is coming to the Virginia Tech Police Department. Officers are now equipped with cameras to wear as part of their uniform.
Wednesday was the first day all Virginia Tech police officers wore body cameras while on duty. School leaders say the cameras are here to stay.
Families arriving on Virginia Tech’s campus are greeted by Virginia Tech police officers. To help give worried parents peace of mind, officers now have body cameras as part of their uniform.
“It’s going to be important because it helps them be fully transparent with the public they serve and this community,” Mark Owczarski, University Spokesperson, said.
He says the new technology allows the officers to stay up-to-date on the latest police practices.
“The Virginia Tech Police Department is a fully accredited law enforcement agency. This additional tool for them keeps them current, keeps them up to speed on the latest trends in law enforcement agencies.”
It also keeps them safe.
“The cameras do work both ways. It helps them and helps the public that they serve.”
Owczarski says there are more reassurances the cameras provide.
“It helps them communicate and show their accountability and their credibility in what they do. It’ll also have a benefit of assisting them in training down the line.”
By reviewing the videos, officers will be able to learn how to better handle situations and improve their communication.
“It’s a very important tool for their tool belt,” Owczarski said. “We’re glad that they have them. It will create a culture of accountability.”
The department now has 48 body cameras. The program cost $115,000 for the cameras, servers, and software.
WDBJ
