In July of 2014 a task force was formed to thoroughly research the evolving digital evidence and body worn camera industry. The group was also tasked with drafting a comprehensive digital evidence and body worn camera operating policy along with bidding documents.  
 
In  January of 2015, a request for Proposal (RFP) was issued that marked the beginning of the City’s nine-month sourcing process that ultimately led to the award.  Body worn cameras have been an instrumental tool of our ability to provide quality control, increase transparency, and enhance services to our community.  All sworn police department employees from the ranks of Lieutenant to officer are required to wear and use BWC’s during contact with the public where an investigation is conducted, and enforcement is possible. 

For additional information on the policies and procedures surrounding the use of cameras, please visit:  Tempe PD General Order 17.105 Body Worn Cameras.

Infographic information begins. Body Worn Cameras (BWC): 1. Training: Officers shall complete Department training prior to the use of any BWC. 2. Storage: When not in use, the BWC devices shall be stored in the designated docking station or secure storage location. The docking station then transfers the digitally encrypted data to the digital evidence storage. 3. Pre-Shift Inspection: Officers shall inspect their assigned BWC devices daily to ensure there isno visual damage and the device is in working order. 4. Camera Position: Officers shall wear the BWC above the midline of their torso and in a position that provides for effective recording. Tempe Police Officer Seal. Background: a vectorized image of an officer wearing a body worn camera. Infographic information ends.