Many local police departments looking to get body cameras
A new state law has many Snohomish County police departments scrambling to get body-worn cameras for their officers by the beginning of 2022.
The measure, part of a package of police reforms passed by state Democratic lawmakers earlier this year, requires law enforcement to record some interrogations in an attempt to increase transparency in felony and juvenile cases. In some instances, the recordings must be audio and video. The rules take effect Jan. 1.
Without many alternatives, many local police agencies are turning to body cameras to meet the requirements of what some of them call an “unfunded mandate.” This is allowing police to get equipment many have requested for years but have usually found to be too expensive.
“I don’t see how we can get around it without body cameras,” said Arlington police Chief Jonathan Ventura. “The law is happening the first of the year whether we like it or not. We better just figure it out.”
All Snohomish County sheriff’s deputies will start wearing them next year. Twelve deputies will soon be outfitted with cameras in a six-week test before full implementation. The sheriff’s office wants three new employees — one for technical support and two for public disclosure.
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