PUBLIC COMMENT SESSION- Chris Olson, Safety Services Manager/Police Chief
Title
PUBLIC COMMENT FOR BODY WORN CAMERAS POLICY/PHASE II
Background
The Blaine Police Department is in the process of implementing body worn cameras (BWCs). We, at the Blaine Police Department, recognize the important relationship between the Department and the community which we serve. BWCs have the capability to enhance officer safety, document statements and events between police officers and the community, preserve information for current and future investigations, and enhance public trust and transparency, all while respecting the privacy and rights of those we serve and those who serve.
The Blaine Police Department is in the course of a multi-phased approach to the implementation of BWCs. Axon Body Worn Cameras have been purchased.
Phase I/Purchase: Has been completed.
Phase II/Policy: As part of the June 15, 2017 Blaine City Council Meeting, there will be an opportunity for the public to comment on the draft policy of BWCs. In addition, this information has been included in the most-recent City of Blaine newsletter and has been posted on the City of Blaine’s website; the draft policy has also been posted on the City of Blaine’s website. The below mail and email addresses can be used to submit written comments about the policy.
Email: bwcpolicy@blainemn.gov
BWC Policy c/o the Blaine Police Department
10801 Town Square Drive NE
Blaine, MN 55449
When complete, the final policy will be posted on the website.
Phase III/Testing, Implementation and Deployment: Utilizing the input we have received, we will then put the BWCs into service.
Phase IV/On-going Support and Management of the System and Data.
As part of the public comment period for the purchase/implementation of BWCs, along with the public comment period for policy development, there will likely be questions posed; answering those questions will be important. To efficiently respond to those questions and comments (and the likelihood there will be similar questions and comments), information will be posted as to the response of those comments in a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ -type) response. The responses will be posted sometime after the closing of the comment period.
We look forward to the responses from our community.