After two years of testing and evaluation according to Sergeant Ronald Harris, the Torrance Police Department has become the latest agency in Southern California to add body cameras to their officers’ attire. This was done to help provide more transparency and safety.
In addition, 50 vehicles belonging to the Torrance Police Department will be equipped with mobile cameras. The body-worn cameras are securely mounted inside an officer’s uniform shirt, rather than attached to the outside, to allow for more stable video.
Craig Shiosaki, president of the Torrance Police Officers’ Association, said they support the use of body-worn cameras. In a statement Shiosaki said, “Body-worn camera recordings will provide a new platform for memorializing the professionalism of our members.”
In February, the City Council approved a five-year payment plan for the cameras for a total of $1.5 million. That covers the purchase of 50 in-car camera sets, 222 body-worn cameras and 66 modems. Body-worn cameras will automatically start recording when an officer steps out of their vehicle and in-vehicle, will begin when lights and siren are turned on.
Torrance Police Department Chief Eve Irvine said in a statement, “This technology will also be a great tool for officers to capture evidence. I envision that our officers will continue to do their jobs professionally while keeping the best interests of the community in mind.”
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