Are Police Body Cameras the Right Move for Boston?

By FRANK O’LAUGHLIN (Patch Staff)

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Is implementing the use of police body cameras in Boston the right move? Two influential city leaders don’t exactly think so.

The Boston City Council will hear a proposal put forth by councilor Charles Yancey on Wednesday night that calls for all city police officers to wear body cameras. The cameras would record their daily interactions with the general public.

An array of police-related incidents depicting the use of excessive force have been caught on body cameras across the country in recent months, sparking Yancey’s interest is equipping the Boston police force with the cameras.

Yancey’s idea has sparked debate across the city, leaving many to question whether it’s an avenue worth exploring.

Boston Mayor Marty Walsh and police Commissioner William Evans don’t feel the cameras will do anything in regards to halting crime, shootings and other community problems.

“Honestly, there are plenty of cameras out there right now,” Evans said during an interview on Boston Herald radio. “Everyone has a cell phone, we are continuously being videotaped and I don’t think we should be paying for the sins of what’s happening across the country.”

While on the Herald’s “Morning Meeting” show, Evans also acknowledged the fact that those around the city view the cameras as a possible solution to limiting violence, but he still feels the issue is a matter of relations between police officers and the public.

“We are down in every crime stat but shootings. Body cameras are not going to prevent shootings from happening,” Walsh added while on the show with Evans.

Walsh also said black males throughout the city’s neighborhoods “shouldn’t have to worry about being stereotyped.”

Both Walsh and Evans are open to a pilot program, but stressed the cost of the cameras will be a major issue. According to Evans, the camera program would cost millions to start and maintain.