It’s a conversation we’ve been hearing for years here in Madison — will the police department begin using body worn cameras?
The police departments in at least seven of Wisconsin’s ten largest cities currently have body cameras.
However, the issue of body worn cameras continues to be debated in Madison.
Some city leaders such as NAACP President, Greg Jones, are for it.
“Used to improve the process, enhance trust between community and law enforcement officials and most importantly streamline the process,” shared Jones.
While, other city leaders such as District 6 Alder, Brian Benford, are against it.
“If we are really depending on technology on a camera to build trust and accountability then we failed,” said Benford.
Right now, Madison remains the largest city in the state without them.
Just last month, Madison Common Council voted to push back a proposal to start a pilot program which would involve using body cams for one year.
Madison Police Chief, Shon Barnes, has stressed that body worn cams are essential in building community trust.
However, Benford believes money to build that trust-needs to go elsewhere first.
“I would question is that money better used in vital community services? Where we are really suffering because of the pandemic,” said Benford.
While, Jones believes body cams are an essential step in the process.
“I think it’s an equalizer in terms of just one facet of the engagement between the community and police,” said Jones.
So for now-the Madison police department is hoping to educate the public, as they await common council’s decision in april.
MPD’s first meeting is this Thursday on UW Madison’s campus. If you’d like to participate in one of the public hearings, you can find more information here.
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