NCJ Number
200796
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 30 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2003 Pages: 46,48,50,54
Editor(s)
Ronnie Garrett
Date Published
June 2003
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This article attempts to help public safety agencies better understand the advantages and disadvantages in mobile video cameras, specifically on cost and expense of equipment.
Abstract
In-car video systems have been advantageous to law enforcement agencies by giving officers an added level of safety, helping departments reduce the number of unnecessary lawsuits and court appearances, and protecting an officer’s reputation and career. The benefits are that of an unbiased and ubiquitous witness. However, at what point do the video camera advantages justify their cost? This article attempts to help law enforcement agencies when making a decision to purchase an in-car patrol video camera, including an examination of the price tag for the base equipment, upgraded equipment and repair and replacement. There are a number of mobile video systems currently available, from digital to analog with each having its share of advantages and disadvantages. Some of the systems available and presented in the article include Mobile-Vision, Eagleye Technologies, Sequent Technologies, On Patrol Video, Digital Safety Technologies (DST), Kustom Signals, and Decatur Electronics, Inc. Most agencies know the benefits of video, but funding remains an obstacle to overcome.