To: All RPD Personnel

From: Chief Gary Manos

Date: December 1, 2018

Ref: S.O.P. 18:002 - Body Worn Cameras

Purpose:

To establish policy and procedures for the use of Body Worn Cameras (BWC) by members of the Ridgely Police Department (RPD or Department).

Policy:

It is the policy of this Department that officers shall activate the BWC when such use is appropriate to the proper performance of his/her official duties, where the recordings are consistent with this policy and law. This policy does not govern the use of surreptitious recording devices used in covert operations. All BWC equipment and recordings are the property of the Ridgely Police Department.

Definitions:

A. Body Worn Cameras (BWC) - a camera system worn on the person of an officer in uniform or officer prominently displaying the badge, insignia, or other markings distinguishing the wearer as an officer, that is capable of recording video and intercepting oral communication.

B. Recordings-the Audio and visual record made by the Body Worn Camera System. The current departmental issue BWC has a 30-second visual pre-record memory before the system is activated. Once activated the system records audio and video.

Procedures:

A. Administrative

1. The Department will utilize BWC for the purpose of accurately documenting events, actions, conditions, and statements made during citizen contacts, arrests, and other critical incidents.

2. BWC audio and video recordings also enhance this Department's ability to review probable cause for arrest, officer and suspect interaction, evidence for investigative and prosecutorial purposes, and to provide additional information for officer evaluation and training.

3. The Chief of Police will appoint a BWC Coordinator to train officers, monitor the use, and coordinate repair and replacements of the BWC as needed.

4. Only Department issued and owned Body Worn Cameras will be worn and used by officers of the Department.