Sheriff's Dept. launches body-worn camera pilot program

SAN DIEGO COUNTY – Sheriff Bill Gore has announced the launch of an estimated 90-day trial period for body-worn cameras (BWCs).

Three companies (WatchGuard Video, TASER International and Vievu) will be involved, each with a 30-day in-field trial phase.

The pilot program was launched on Friday, Feb. 5 and the first testing cycle will include a system from the company WatchGuard Video.

In August 2014, the Sheriff's Department established a BWC Committee to explore the suitability and feasibility of BWCs. Research included companies and equipment, best practices for storage of the metadata and a comprehensive protocol and policy for the application of BWCs.

"This is one of the most significant programs we have initiated since I was elected Sheriff, and I want to do it the right way – for our personnel, and for our communities," said Gore. All deputies who participate in this trial phase will receive training conducted by the BWC providers. At the conclusion of the entire testing phase, trial participants will provide feedback for review and analysis. Information from this trial will be used in the final selection of the RFP (request for proposals) process.