June 12, 2020 at 12:48 p.m.
Sheriff says time is now for deputy body cameras
By Bartholomew County Sheriff's Department-
Press Release
Bartholomew County Sheriff Matt Myers says "Along with keeping drugs out of Bartholomew County, public trust has been one of my top priorities since my first day on the job (January 1, 2015)."
"A strong part of public trust is to have each and every deputy wear a body camera and have a car camera to capture all of the facts of each exchange with the public. Progressive law enforcement agencies across the nation have started to use body cameras and car cameras to create more accountability for both the officers and the public. Studies have shown that the use of body cameras can provide valuable information after a call for service to show the facts. In many cases these tapes can be used as a positive training aid for all Deputies on how to properly approach each and every call. In extreme cases the body camera evidence can reflect the true facts of the situation for appropriate action.
"As Sheriff, I started asking for funding for body cameras in 2016. For many reasons, the funding and the technology could not be secured. This communication is not meant to point fingers or lay blame on why the funding was not approved for this improvement. This communication chooses to look forward and point out the fact that the time to secure this funding is now. As Sheriff, I will be making the strong case for this enhancement to both the County Council and the County Commissioners. It is also very important to note that all Deputies are in strong support of this effort.
“This is an issue that I have supported since becoming Sheriff in 2015. Today, as your Sheriff, I believe that this project should be top priority. As Sheriff, I have made this a top priority for funding this year. We have several viable quotes from nationally recognized suppliers and we have great input from other policing agencies that currently use this technology. We feel we are ready to make our case and move forward with this non-negotiable priority.
"I also want to thank the many citizens and community leaders who are very vocal in their support of this improvement. These voices, along with our deputies who have also voiced strong support, make this a win-win for our community.
"As your Sheriff, I am asking for your support to move forward with this top priority and ask you to contact your County Council representative to voice your support.
"The time is now!"
