From Ken Dixon, CT Post:
Connecticut could become the first state to require body cameras for all of its 8,000 police officers, if a bill requiring it wins approval.
Supporters of the cameras can probably point to last month’s anti-police violence in Baltimore for pushing the bill toward the finish line. Lawmakers, civil libertarians and even Connecticut police chiefs support the bill that’s now in the Senate, saying the time has arrived for mandatory video equipment to protect police officers and the public …
While some towns and cities such as Bridgeport are investigating funding sources for body cameras, with average costs ranging from $400 to $800 apiece, others have gone ahead, including Fairfield, Westport, West Haven, Norwalk and Hartford. East Haven police wear them as part of an agreement with federal authorities, following the bias charges that led to arrests and prison time for former officers convicted of discrimination against Hispanics.
Full story here.
I think it’s a step in the right direction, although we watched a Bridgeport cop kick the hell out of that kid in Beardsley Park and was acquitted.
You never know what a jury will do but at least you have visual evidence.
This is a good idea for the cops and community as well, should be supported and applauded.