EVERETT, Wash. — Everett may be latest local police department to try out body-worn cameras.
The department wants to begin with a small pilot program before possibly equipping the whole department.
Everett Police Chief Dan Templeman told KIRO 7's partners at the Everett Herald the plan they've considered since 2016 will become reality when they launch a pilot program with 10 body-worn cameras later this year.
The department has $100,000 in this year's budget to buy 50 cameras, but the thought is to start with only a handful and then assess the program as policy is sorted out.
Originally, the department was going to ask the city council for funding and then apply for a matching grant that would have provided nearly all of its 206 officers body-worn cameras like those officers in Seattle and other departments wear.
The proposal for the grant said the cameras would provide more accountability as well as increased officer safety.
But the deadline for the grant is Wednesday, and Templeman says that’s not enough time to work out the details. He may apply for another grant next year.
He says starting with a small pilot program will help get an idea of how much money would be needed to equip all off the officers if the decision is made to move forward.
It is not yet known when the pilot program will begin. The department, a Community Advisory Board and the police union are working on a policy to determine how the cameras will be used. The general public will also have an opportunity to weigh in.
Cox Media Group
