City of Independence Police Department awarded grant for officer body cameras
The City of Independence Police Department announced Tuesday they had received a grant from the United States Department of Justice to deploy 200 body-worn cameras. The three-year grant will provide the deployment of 200 body cameras and three additional staff positions.
“We are honored to receive this grant from the federal government and know this is something our residents and Police Department have been working toward for years,” Mayor Rory Rowland said. “This effort would not have been possible without the support of the Independence Police Foundation and the department itself. We will receive $400,000 in federal funds and match it with $400,000 in City funds. We look forward to learning more about the implementation of this program in January 2024.”
The three positions, two civilian and one commissioned, will oversee the technology and media management of these cameras and the data collected from them.
“Body cameras have been a top priority for this Department and will help further our commitments to transparency, community trust, and supporting our officers,” Chief Adam Dustman said. “We are refining policies and procedures with this program and expect to share further details with Council and the public this fall.”
This step specifically addresses the City Council’s Action Plan goal focusing on the updating of public safety technology systems. Further work is underway to add additional license plate readers in key corridors of the City.
“As a member of law enforcement, this has been a step I have advocated for and I am proud to see this resource provided to our officers in Independence,” 2nd District Councilmember Brice Stewart said. “This is a big step forward for our community.”