Boone County to test body cameras

We are getting our first look at body cameras that might be used by Mid-Missouri law enforcement. The Boone County Sheriff’s Department is considering using the new equipment.

“It can be used as an evidence gathering tool. Certainly, it can be used to review officer performance,” said Maj. Tom Ridden with Boone County Sheriff’s Department.

Boone County Sheriff’s Department is the latest Mid-Missouri agency to test body cameras. During the pilot program, it will test eight cameras. Patrol deputies will wear four of them, the other four, will stay in the jail and be worn as personnel work with inmates. The department will test video and sound quality, durability, among other characteristics.The Sheriff’s Department said deputies will soon be on duty with the cameras.

“By the end of this month is our expectation. We’re waiting for some technical training to occur. We’ve got our policies written and in place. We need to train the folks that we’re going to issue these to,” said Ridden.

The first model the Sheriff’s Department will test is the L3 made by Mobile-Vision, Inc. The department already uses Mobile-Vision for dashboard cameras. Officials do plan on testing other companies before they make a final decision, which won’t happen until next year.