Tumwater Police Department selects vendor for body cameras

Tumwater Police Department has chosen Axon as its vendor for body-worn and in-car cameras, as announced by Deputy Chief Carlos Quiles Jr. during a City Council meeting on November 18. The department plans to purchase 48 body cameras, which will be updated every 30 months, along with 29 in-car cameras to create a unified system, with updates every five years. If the contract is finalized by the end of the year, training could commence in spring. Axon’s cameras feature real-time translation for over 50 languages and redaction tools that streamline the processing of video footage for disclosure requests.

Quiles highlighted the importance of compatibility with neighboring jurisdictions, as local agencies like Olympia and Lacey already use Axon. The department is also drafting a policy for camera usage and engaging in discussions with the police union about the implications of the new system. Completing the policy and union agreement is a priority, with a target of year-end. The implementation of these cameras aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in law enforcement operations.