The leon county sheriffs office (lcso) proposes to utilize bwcpip funding to expand lcsos existing BWC program

The Leon County Sheriff's Office (LCSO) received a $112,000 Project Grant award under the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Bureau of Justice Assistance's Body Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program (CFDA 16.835). The grant, effective October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2026, will enable LCSO to expand its existing body-worn camera (BWC) program. Key activities include purchasing new BWC equipment, enhancing technical support for the expanded camera system, developing policies for BWC use in corrections settings, providing related training, and implementing an evaluation process. The project aims to improve officer safety, enhance evidence collection, increase transparency and accountability in law enforcement, reduce excessive use of force incidents, and strengthen community relations in Leon County, Florida.

Expected outcomes include improved officer safety, enhanced evidence collection, enhanced transparency, and increased accountability in law enforcement practices; reduced excessive use of force incidents; and improved community relations. Sworn law enforcement officers and the citizens of leon county are the intended beneficiaries of the project. The bwcs acquired under this award will continue to be utilized as a training tool to improve officer/deputy performance and improve DE-escalation skills and evidence gathering techniques. Leon county residents will benefit from continued increases in the transparency and accountability of law enforcement officers using these bwcs, which will further advance lcsos efforts to build trust between the community and law enforcement. Specific activities will include purchasing new equipment, expanding technical support for the additional cameras (e.g., charging, downloading video/audio, etc.), developing expanded policies for camera implantation for use in corrections settings, developing and implementing training, and developing an evaluation process to ensure successful expansion. The lcso will also meet regularly with the assigned TTA provider for guidance, evaluation, and implementation of recommended changes.