KPD implements first body-worn camera program in state

News Release From KPD, December 18, 2015

LĪHU'E – The Kauai Police Department is distributing its body-worn cameras to patrol officers next week, making it the first department in the state to implement a body-worn camera program.

“This is a program that we’ve tested and vetted for over a year and we’re excited to finally begin implementation,” stated Kauai Police Chief Darryl Perry. “The Kauai Police Department is committed to creating a more transparent department and being more accountable to the community that we serve. This technology is another step in the right direction toward achieving that goal.”

Earlier this year, KPD purchased 105 body cameras from Taser International following extensive research and studies, along with implementation of a month-long pilot program. Throughout next week, all patrol officers will be outfitted with their new cameras, which will be worn on the officer’s uniform collar or mounted on eyewear.

The department’s camera usage policy requires the officer to turn on the cameras during traffic stops, arrests, criminal investigations and other on-duty assignments, such as crowd control. The equipment must be charged after each shift, when recordings are uploaded and stored to a secured third party site. Officers do not have the ability to edit or modify the footage.

Law enforcement officials believe that body-worn cameras help to create a positive impact on police interactions by encouraging officers to maintain the highest level of professionalism, while protecting them from false allegations of misconduct.

“Knowing that such interactions are being recorded will help all parties to be more aware of their actions,” added Chief Perry. “We believe this is a win-win for both our officers and our citizens. By increasing oversight and accountability we will ultimately help to create a safer community.”

###

KGI: KPD officers 1st in state to use new body-worn cameras, despite SHOPO disapproval