The Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) is implementing a Body Worn Camera (BWC) Pilot Program. Beginning September 12, 2016 select uniformed police officers and civilian personnel will be outfitted with these cameras. The introduction of BWC technology will assist the Police Department in collecting documentary evidence for criminal investigations and administrative investigations while enabling the Department to identify areas for growth and improvement, and commendatory actions. The SMPD is working with researchers from California State University (CSU) Fullerton to gather and study data collected over the course of this 6-month pilot program.
The Pilot Program will greatly assist the Police Department as it evaluates the technology, its effectiveness, the best methods for processing the data captured, and the efficacy of the associated policies governing the uses of the devices.
The SMPD recognizes the significance of accountability and transparency as functions of securing and maintaining the public’s trust. The BWC Pilot Program is an accepted, contemporary method for the Police Department to enhance accountability and transparency while improving the services provided to the Santa Monica community. The BWC technology will supplement in-car audio/video recorders SMPD officers have been using for many years.
Following the six-month period, a comprehensive and measured evaluation will be undertaken to assess the Pilot Program’s effectiveness in terms of legislative requirements, the needs of the Police Department, and community expectations.
In an effort to best obtain the community’s perspectives regarding our BWC Pilot Program, the SMPD will be seeking public participation in our program surveys. Interested community members may participate by visiting www.santamonicapd.org/bodyworncamera for an English and Spanish BWC survey.
For additional information, please call the BWC Information line (310) 458-8400
