June 25, 2016
This news story is representative of a growing trend that seems to be more common as departments push forward with body-worn camera implementation. Local governments are being asked to commit large amounts of taxpayer dollars or make critical policy and implementation decisions on camera programs. Unfortunately, for both the departments and local officials, they are increasingly discovering “issues” with either the vendor, the equipment, selection processes or a number of other factors as they approach a decision point. Many times these could have been identified and avoided if either government officials or the police department would have brought in an outside consultant to work with them. A consultant can be a cost-effective solution that saves time and money while avoiding informational “blind spots” that can sometimes occur. A body-worn camera consultant should have extensive practical police and camera program experience, comprehensive knowledge of the entire spectrum of camera operations, project management skills and the ability to provide objective, impartial, feedback to decision makers. Unnecessary delays to the fielding of body-worn cameras are not in the best interests of the community, the police department or local government. Ultimately, decisions on a program will be made by political and police leaders. These should, however, be the best informed decisions possible. This is so important a concept that the Bureau of Justice Assistance has contracted with CNA Analysis & Solutions to provide just such informational assistance in the form of a Training and Technical Assistance Team that works with police departments receiving federal grant money for body camera implementation programs. A consultant might just be the right solution for your body-worn camera program challenges.