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On Thursday, Jan. 29, officers showed off their newest device, a wireless body camera made by Vievu.
Unlike the cameras tested in the final months of 2014, the Vievu camera can record video completely independent of any other technology, allowing officers to record inside of buildings, or in the middle of the woods, where other models were limited by proximity to the police cruiser.
And although the new device has its limitations - clip orientation and the need to manually download the camera’s contents - officers seem to like the device, which gives them control over whether or not they are recording.
“Cameras can capture private moments of families that don't need to be recorded,” Lt. James Perez said in regards to officers responding to domestic disputes. “They don’t need to be recording, but if the officer doesn’t have the choice [private moments] are now public record."
Part of the study the department is currently working on is strongly centered around the effectiveness of these new pieces of equipment.
“Our No. 1 consideration is the evidentiary value,” Deputy Chief Christopher Lyddy told The Daily Voice in December. “Our No. 2 is officer protection. We do a great job in Fairfield, but the aftermath … [officers] may step up their game.”
To read about previous prototypes Fairfield Police have tested in recent months, follow this link.
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