Video: Columbus Police First to Use Body Cameras in North Mississippi

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – After a nationwide debate about the use of force by police officers, many departments began using body cameras. The Columbus Police Department is now following that trend.

Police in Columbus will be the first in North Mississippi to implement the use of body cameras on its officers. They began using the cameras this month.

“Officers can view the video and go back and make sure that their reports are accurate. It’s also great for court purposes. The officers can go into court and testify and have this video to back up what they’re saying,” says Tony Carleton, Chief of the Columbus Police Department.

Protests against police brutality in recent months have lead police departments around the country to use body cameras during routine stops.

“Anytime the officer comes into contact with someone that there may be a chargeable offense, then the officer will activate the recorder,” says Carleton.

“Once we’re done with recording we’ll go back to the vehicle and we’ll just hit this button. Hold the button for just five seconds. And the tone that you just heard is basically letting you know that the status is now on standby,” says Columbus Police Officer, Raymond Hackler.

The cameras record sound and video. The recorded video is then saved digitally and logged for future use.

The body cameras were funded with a $14,000 federal grant.