The first of 131 video cameras purchased by the Shreveport Police Department have been installed in city police cars.
Shreveport Police Chief Jim Roberts said the department has received 45 Mobile Vision in-car video systems to document traffic stops and other police activities.
"This is a positive move for our citizens and the department," Roberts said. "Cameras can provide important evidentiary information that's useful in the court process, and they can also help law enforcement identify areas where service may need to be improved."
The cameras, including audio, activate automatically when an officer operates his overhead and rear flasher lights. They continue to film until they are turned off by the officer.
The cameras are being installed in take-home patrol cars, patrol pool cars, and traffic units. Of the 45 new systems already in the department's possession, 21 have been installed. Another six should be installed today.
The total cost for the 131 cameras, equipment and installation is $443,460.
A brief training session for officers who will be operating the cameras will be held on Friday.
