Body cameras in Fulton, MO are keeping the city’s police officers out of court. Cities and towns across the nation have looked into installing body cameras in their police departments following the shooting of Michael Brown in August. Brown was shot and killed by a police officer in Ferguson, MO.
However, the Fulton Police Department was looking into these cameras well before the death of Michael Brown occurred. Fulton’s Police Department started looking into body cameras over a year and a half ago and has been using the cameras for six months.
Fulton Police Chief, Steve Meyers said, "Many times when the defense attorneys see the video and what actually occurred my officers don't have to appear in court at that time."
Officers in Fulton are having the same positive experience as Chief Meyers with the body cameras.
Lieutenant Ladwig added, "The officers welcomed the use of the body cameras as it will always be a complete and accurate description of what has happened at the scene or when we're having contact with a citizen."
The Fulton Police Department may be adding more body cameras to their department in the future. Meyers also said that each camera costs between 750 and 800 dollars. The cameras were purchased through a grant the department received from their insurance provider and The Department of Public Safety.
