From
Fred Bates, Jr.
Title
Resolution authorizing the City Manager to apply for grant funds to; purchase body worn camera equipment, receive training and technical assistance, and implementation support from the United States Department of Justice’s (U.S. DOJ) Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Body Worn Camera (BWC) pilot program administered by the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) in the amount of $104,391
Presenter
Steve Dye, Chief of Police
Recommended Action
Approve
Analysis
The Grand Prairie Police Department serves a City that is situated within an exponentially growing Dallas - Fort Worth region. The combination of urban, suburban, commercial, and industrial growth in this region necessitates a vibrant, progressive, and well-trained police department that understands and respects the cultural and demographic diversity of its citizens and visitors. The Police Department continues to seek ways in order to enhance its transparency, promote the mutual accountability of, and the public partnership between its officers and citizens.
Based on current research, including the recently released Interim Report of The President’s Task Force on 21st Century Policing, police departments should be aware that “building trust and nurturing legitimacy on both sides of the police/citizen divide is not only the first pillar…, but also the foundational principle…” in the nature of law enforcement and community relations. The Grand Prairie Police Department has built and maintains this culture of transparency in its relationship with community leaders and the citizens it is charged with serving.
A strong recommendation that adheres to this policing philosophy is the expanded use of Mobile Audio / Video technology (MAV). The use of Body Worn Camera (BWC) technology is another tool to expand the Departments ability to enhance its ability to collect evidence, improve officer safety, and to strengthen the mutual accountability between officers and citizens.
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