The beachwood police department proposes to implement THISBJAFY24BODY-worncamera policy and implementation program to support law enforcement agencies grant program

The City of Beachwood, Ohio was awarded a $130,000 Project Grant from the U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance (CFDA 16.835 Body Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program) to improve the Beachwood Police Department's body-worn camera (BWC) program. The project, running from October 2024 to September 2027, will enable the department to update its outdated BWC equipment, implement formal procedures for reviewing BWC recordings, and provide officer training on the proper use of BWC footage. The grant aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and officer performance through the strategic implementation of a comprehensive BWC program.

The purpose is to improve our current body-worn camera policy, as well as updating our current, outdated, body-worn cameras (bwcs). Project activities will include implementing a formal procedure for reviewing recordings to ensure proper use of the cameras, and providing formal training with the use of BWC footage. Our department has been wearing bwcs since 2018, and our lexipol policy is up-to-date with recommended legal updates. This project will allow our agency to maintain a high standard of BWC equipment, proper usage of bwcs, improve officer performance while on the job, and transparency of BWC usage with the public.