West Orange Police Are Now Sporting Body Cameras

WEST ORANGE, NJ — The West Orange Police Department began its mandated use of body cameras for officers on patrol Monday, kicking off a move towards “enhanced transparency” for both police and residents, township officials say.

West Orange authorities previously announced the body camera initiative in July, citing an Oct. 1 start date for the program.

“Patrol personnel will be required to wear one while they are on duty,” township officials previously stated. “Between six to 10 officers will be equipped with the cameras per shift.”

• See related article: West Orange Police Will Roll Out Body Cameras This Autumn

Last year, the WOPD received $30,000 in grant money to purchase 60 body cameras for its officers. The funding was part of $2.5 million for 176 police departments statewide for more than 5,000 body worn cameras.

• See related article: West Orange Police Get $30K For Body Cameras From State Grant

West Orange town officials provided an update about the program’s official rollout on Saturday:

“The West Orange Police Department will begin wearing body-worn cameras (BWCs) starting Oct 3, 2016 to enhance transparency with the public. Patrol personnel are required to wear one while they are on duty.”

Photo: West Orange Township, Facebook

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