Humboldt Police to institute vehicle and body cams
Humboldt Police Chief Joel Sanders explains protocols Humboldt Police will adopt regarding the use of body cameras, which were purchased earlier this year. They will be activated and used by officers, along with two in-car cameras in the near future. Humboldt Independent photo by Kent Thompson.
By KENT THOMPSON
The Humboldt Police Department (HPD) will start wearing body worn cameras in the near future. Officers aren’t obligated to inform the public that they are being recorded, but department policy advises them to do so.
Humboldt Police Chief Joel Sanders appeared before the Humboldt City Council on Monday night and allowed the Council members to look over the small body-mounted cameras and then explained the operations and policy behind the technology.
He said the main purposes of the cameras are to:
• Gather valuable evidence in prosecuting criminal and traffic violations.
• Demonstrate the department’s commitment to transparency.
• Ensure the accountability of HPD officers and citizens.
• Continue the public’s trust in HPD officers.
• Protect HPD officers from unjustified complaints of misconduct.
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