Amid rising concerns over police brutality, the Los Angeles Police Department announced Tuesday that it has ordered 3,000 new Tasers that activate cameras on officers’ uniforms when deployed.
The digital Taser X26P weapons record the date, time and duration of firing, Reuters reported. The LAPD’s Tasers will be linked via Bluetooth technology to Taser International’s body cameras, turning on the camera when the Taser’s safety switch is thrown, Reuters reported.
“This technology gives a much better picture of what happens in the field,” said Steve Tuttle, spokesman for the Scottsdale, Arizona-based Taser International Inc.
In December, L.A. officials announced a plan to equip 7,000 street cops with Taser’s body cameras, Reuters reported.
“It is our goal to make these important tools available to every front line officer over the next few years,” Police Chief Charlie Beck said in a statement.
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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