Through the FY24 usbja body-worn camera policy and implementation program, north arlington police departmentseeks to expand and enhance our body-worn camera (BWC) program

The North Arlington Police Department (NAPD) was awarded a $155,800 Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Body Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program (CFDA 16.835). The grant, awarded on October 1, 2024, will be used to expand and enhance NAPD's body-worn camera (BWC) program. Specifically, the funding will equip all 38 patrol officers with upgraded BWCs to replace the department's outdated and insufficient equipment. The enhanced BWCs will provide objective documentation of officer interactions, boosting accountability, supporting evidentiary effectiveness, and promoting transparency. The grant will also support the development of comprehensive BWC policies, officer training, and ongoing program monitoring to ensure adherence to legal standards and best practices. NAPD will engage the community through public meetings and an online portal to educate residents and address any questions or concerns about the BWC program. The grant will run through September 30, 2027.

Our current bwcs, crucial in reducing use-of-force incidents and civilian complaints, are outdated and suffer from insufficient battery life. This proposal aims to secure funding to equip all 38 patrol officers with upgraded bwcs, ensuring comprehensive coverage and improved operational efficiency. Enhanced bwcs will provide objective documentation of interactions, boosting accountability, supporting evidentiary effectiveness, and promoting transparency. The footage will play a critical role in investigations and court proceedings, strengthening legal outcomes and fostering public trust. Napd will engage the community through an initital public meeting where residents will learn and ask questions about the program. A portal on napd's and the borough of north arlington's website will be accessible for residents thereafter. Collaboration with the bergen county prosecutor's office will streamline digital evidence management and ensure secure storage and access. Our implementation plan includes regular policy reviews, comprehensive officer training, and continuous monitoring to ensure adherence to legal standards and best practices. By working with the BJA training and technical assistance (TTA) provider, we will document program components, share best practices, and incorporate lessons learned to enhance effectiveness, aligning with the grant program's goals by promoting transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency which will ultimate improve officer performace and local trust with napd.