WASHINGTON — The United States Capitol Police (USCP) is launching a 180-day body camera pilot program starting Monday.
Authorities say the pilot program's 70 officers, who volunteered for the program, work outside Congressional buildings because they have more interactions with the public. Around 11 USCP cruisers will also be outfitted with dashboard cameras.
The cameras will record public interactions requiring police to respond. Officers will manually turn on their bodycams when they are taking action. Officers will also inform anyone if they are being recorded at the beginning of the interaction if possible and appropriate.
The cameras will automatically record video and audio when officers pull out their firearms or tasers. The dashboard cameras will automatically record when the cruiser’s emergency lights are activated.
Bodycam video will be treated the same as Capitol surveillance video. The cameras are not intended to be used inside the Congressional Buildings or during interactions with members of Congress, according to a USCP press release.
“I was confident that the cameras would do two things. First, they would remind the public just how challenging the law enforcement profession can be,” said U.S. Capitol Police Chief Tom Manger. “Second, the cameras would also showcase the great work our cops do day in and day out. This is a great accountability tool for everyone.”
After the pilot program, the USCP Body Worn Camera Taskforce will use feedback to analyze the program. Based on that review, Chief Manger will send a recommendation about a permanent bodycam program to the USCP’s Congressional Stakeholders.
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