From
Fred Bates, Jr.
Title
Resolution authorizing the City Manager to apply for grant funds in the amount of $201,734.40 from the Texas Criminal Justice Division (TCJD) of the Office of the Governor, to purchase body worn camera equipment.
Presenter
Chief Steve Dye, Police Department
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 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 systems. 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. The Department has currently implemented the BWC program by distributing 200 cameras to officers whose primary duties involve regular contact with citizens and enforcement actions.
This Texas...
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