Sept. 12, 2011

The Phoenix Police Department, in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU) College of Public Programs, has received a $500,000 federal grant to purchase 50 on-officer video camera systems that will be used in the Maryvale Precinct.

The Department of Justice “Smart Policing” grant will allow ASU and the Police Department to jointly examine the impact of this technology on crime, public and police accountability, and satisfaction with the police. 

“This grant will allow us to further our department’s commitment to community-based policing while maintaining the public trust,” said Acting Police Chief Joe Yahner. “The technology that this grant will provide will enhance our officers’ ability to provide quality police service in keeping with the highest standards of the Phoenix Police Department.”

Acting on a recommendation by the City Manager’s Community Engagement and Outreach Task Force, Phoenix Police piloted an on-officer video camera program earlier this year in the South Mountain and Cactus Park precincts. The task force was created in 2010 to improve police relations with the community through effective dialogue and partnerships. 

Jocquese Blackwell and Julian Nabozny, two of the original task force members and current co-chairs of the Community Engagement and Outreach Implementation Team, applauded the department for pursuing the two-year grant.

“By using this grant to purchase wearable cameras, the Phoenix Police Department has solidified their commitment to ensure that it maintains its status as one of the best police departments in the country,” Blackwell said.

Nabozny said, “The utilization of the camera vividly crystallizes the encounter between the police officer and the civilian…It brings a higher level of professionalism from the law enforcement officer and makes the resident behave in a more responsible manner.”

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