COLUMBUS, Ohio (AP) - City officials are exploring the use of body cameras for Columbus officers in an attempt to strengthen the bond between police and the community.
The Columbus Dispatch reports (https://bit.ly/1FokbiD ) Mayor Michael Coleman made the announcement Thursday. The city will also review how police handle internal affairs complaints, and will make community forums with the chief a permanent fixture.
Coleman will pick a committee to explore the cameras’ feasibility. But he says he’s concerned about possible privacy issues the cameras present.
The cost of implementation could also be an issue. Public Safety Director George Speaks says server space to store footage could cost up to $6 million.
The announcement follows recommendations from state task forces examining training and community-police relations after several fatal police shootings and protests in Ohio and nationally.
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Information from: The Columbus Dispatch, https://www.dispatch.com
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