Body Worn Cameras Coming to IMPD

IMPD will begin using body worn cameras soon. Utility Inc. photo

Nearly six years after first investigating the possibility of outfitting police officers with body worn cameras, IMPD Chief Randal Taylor announced today that the department is one step closer to the start of a body worn camera program. IMPD has signed a contract with Utility, Inc., a Decatur, Georgia-based manufacturer of hardware and software products for the law enforcement community, to begin outfitting officers with the equipment.

In a statement, Chief Taylor said the program represents one of the many ways IMPD officers continue working to build community trust. “We remain dedicated to serving Indianapolis neighborhoods every day, building stronger relationships with residents that allow us to work together to make our city a safer place for everyone,” he said.

Additional coverage: IMPD Reforms to Build Trust

According to IMPD, the 5.5-year, $9.2 million contract will equip 1,100 officers with Utility body worn camera technology. The contract covers the costs of leasing the technology, installation of the equipment, upgrades to the technology after three years, maintenance and local support to address any technology issues, and cloud-based video storage. This technology allows for the decentralized uploading of footage as well as automated recording triggers that will turn the cameras on in certain situations, including:

  • Being within 500 feet of a dispatched run
  • Drawing the gun from its holster
  • Beginning to run
  • Lying flat for 10 seconds
  • Violent shaking, such as during a fight
  • Activating lights and/or sirens in the car
  • Unlocking the patrol car shotgun rack

The 1,100 officers being outfitted with body worn cameras in this initial phase include those who respond to 9-1-1 calls, including beat officers, street supervisors, and special units. Installation of the technology will begin in the coming weeks with officers on IMPD’s East District, the busiest district in the city, with a goal of equipping 10 officers per day.