The current problem facing law enforcement is the critical need for public safety agencies to enhance transparency and accountability and improve police services to improve interactions with the public

The Bureau of Justice Assistance, an agency within the U.S. Department of Justice, awarded a $985,000 Project Grant under the Congressionally Recommended Awards program (CFDA 16.753) to the City of Orlando, Florida. This grant will support the Orlando Police Department's efforts to enhance transparency, accountability, and police services through the implementation of an in-car camera program. The in-car cameras will capture driving patterns and other video data during traffic stops and suspected DUI incidents, providing valuable evidence for investigations. Additionally, the rear-seat cameras will help protect the safety and increase the transparency of interactions between officers and the public, thereby building community trust. The grant has an award date of October 1, 2023, and a completion date of September 30, 2027.

Community policing efforts to address this need, and continue to build community trust, are directly linked to the need to incorporate improved technology. The orlando police department (OPD) has been very proactive in addressing this problem through multiple methods of review and improvements in transparency. One of the programs being implemented by the orlando police department is its in-car camera program. OPD's in-car camera program aims to address issues related to the agencys ability to be transparent, document investigations, and capture criminal activity. While OPD has a robust body-worn camera program, in-car cameras can capture data while operating a motor vehicle, such as traffic stops and suspected DUI incidents. Driving patterns caught on video are an important tool for investigations, such as DUI and cases where vehicle pursuits are involved. Additionally, the in-car camera system includes a camera mounted toward the rear-seat of the patrol vehicle, providing valuable data that not only protects everyones safety, but also increases transparency and therefore public trust.