NEW YORK (AP) — A top city official is showing off cameras she says could curb police brutality allegations and save the city millions of dollars in legal costs.
Public Advocate Letitia James demonstrated the body-worn cameras Thursday at a news conference at her Lower Manhattan office.
James proposed the cameras earlier this month, in the wake of Eric Garner’s death from a police chokehold.
She wants police to start a pilot program covering officers in areas with high crime and misconduct complaint rates.
James says the city spent $152 million last year on misconduct-related judgments and settlements. The pilot program would cost about $5 million.
The body-worn cameras James demonstrated sell for $450 to $900.
Patrolmen’s Benevolent Association President Patrick Lynch has said he wants to see evidence of the cameras’ effectiveness.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.