By Ryan Olson
Chico Enterprise-Record
PARADISE, Calif. — Police officers in Paradise will soon have a new tool to use when they go out on patrol.
The Paradise Town Council voted 4-0 to spend $14,820 to buy 20 shoulder microphones that can also record video and sound.
The “VIDMIC” devices from Utah-based EHS, Inc. look similar to ones that officers have been using for years. There are some key differences, including a raised area holding a camera “eye” and a screen to display a picture on the back.
Police Chief Jerry Carrigan praised the microphones, saying they were a new tool in a police officer’s toolbox. He said the devices can produce unbiased records of events.
“It’s very important to do whatever we can to create a sort of objective process,” Carrigan said.
These audio-visual records can be submitted to the District Attorney’s Office and used in criminal prosecutions. They can also be used to affirm officers’ reports and be used when a resident files a complaint.
In the past two years, the department has faced allegations that individual officers have used excessive force in some cases. Carrigan said if the recorders had been used during the incidents, it would have provided an unbiased verification of what actually happened.
An officer on patrol can start and stop recordings with the touch of a button. Since the recordings can be evidence, officers can’t delete the videos and the material can only be downloaded by a superior officer.
The 20 new mikes will join three that the department has been testing. Carrigan said there would be enough devices for uniformed officers and sergeants. Detectives and drug-enforcement officers will have access to the recorders, but will likely not use them for day-to-day business.
The council appeared impressed with the technology after watching video from a shoulder mike used by Lt. Al Billington. Councilman Steve Culleton said it was great technology, but was curious about what happens if the officer fails to start recording.
Carrigan said there are policies for camera usage. There are also rules regarding the release of audio-video evidence.
The new devices have drawn a lot of interest and support. Robert Haskins, president of the Paradise Police Officers’ Association, supported the purchase. Carrigan said the Butte County Sheriff’s Office and the Butte County District Attorney’s Office have expressed interest.
“I think we’re at the vanguard,” Carrigan said.
Carrigan noted the new cameras were part of an ongoing process by the police. Already, officers are equipped with audio recorders, frequently used for translating. In fall 2005, the department began a process that has resulted in two in-car video systems.
Town Manager Chuck Rough said the new recorders were a step forward. He said the town would still pursue the in-car systems, but the portable units were important.
“We’re buying the units that goes with the officer, that’s why it’s a priority right now,” Rough said.
Copyright 2008 Chico Enterprise-Record