Body cameras will now record most police action at Cal Poly.
A five-year, almost $100,000 contract was signed this summer with law enforcement equipment supplier Axon to provide University Police (UPD) with body cameras.
The goal is transparency, according to a Cal Poly press release.
“This tool can be used to increase accountability and safety in general on our campus by helping confirm facts or dismiss false claims,” Police Chief George Hughes said in the press release.
The cameras will not be on and recording at all times, according to UPD. Officers will not use the cameras during conversation, but will be able to turn them on quickly when needed.
Sensitive interviews, such as those with victims of sexual assault or crimes involving minors, will not be recorded.
Feedback from the community has been positive and no negative criticism has been received, according to UPD.
“I’m happy anytime someone with a gun can be held accountable for their potential actions,” theatre arts senior Donald Caven said.
The cameras will provide UPD with more information, ranging from evidence in cases to more context in police misconduct allegations.