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Soon, the Bureau of Police could have officers affixed with recording video body cameras and in-car camera systems linked for better processing of crimes, getting video evidence and increasing public safety for citizens and police.
That's because on Tuesday, Williamsport City Council's public safety committee gave a positive recommendation to the Bureau of Police for a $347,293 purchase for Watch Guard body work cameras and in-car video systems with related equipment from Motorola Solutions through Keystone Communications of Northumberland.
Police Chief Justin Snyder brought the resolution request before the committee authorizing purchase of 48 body cameras and 14 in-car video systems. The cost of the camera equipment will be paid for using the American Rescue Plan funds.
The city was notified it was a recipient of nearly $25.5 million in ARPA funds. It has $12.7 million and expects a similar tranche by May.
"This is a lesser price than first quoted," Councilwoman Bonnie Katz said of the camera system package.
"Yes, we worked diligently on getting the best price for the city," Snyder said.
Katz asked if the programs would be integrated. Digital evidence will be contained, Snyder said.
Katz asked if training would be needed for software.
"No, there is no training for software," he said. Police administration is in the process of preparing a policy for use of body cameras. Officers will go over policy and procedures and sign off on it.
Body cameras record and will download any video evidence into a cloud based system.
"I am sorry it took this long… this is as vital as your radios," Katz said.
Councilman Vincent Pulizzi asked about the digital storage capacity. He was curious if 50 gigs of storage would be enough to cover an officer's shift.
"If we want to upgrade from 50 gigs to 100 gigs I am assuming it is as simple as purchasing a higher capacity SD card," Pulizzi said.
The cameras can with relative ease be put into any new vehicles that would replace those affixed with the cameras.
The resolution was passed with a positive recommendation by Councilman Jon Mackey, committee chair, Katz and Pulizzi.