Officers in the Madison Police Department's north district began using body-worn cameras on Monday as part of a 90-day pilot program, MPD officials said.
MADISON, Wis. -- Officers in the Madison Police Department's north district began using body-worn cameras on Monday as part of a 90-day pilot program, MPD officials said.
The Madison Common Council gave the program the green light last year. It came after years of debate surrounding the use of the technology. Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes has long been a supporter of the cameras' use.
"This pilot program represents a pivotal stride toward our vision of becoming a National Model for Exceptional Policing," Barnes said."
Officers in the north district were trained last week on how the cameras work. MPD officials said professional staff showed the officers how to access video storage and handle public requests for footage.
For the pilot program, MPD is using Panasonic cameras. The cameras are already used by MPD's SWAT team and motorcycle-riding officers. An independent researcher will study the implementation of the cameras and report back to city leaders.
The program will run through July 14.
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