Congresswoman Jaime Herrera Beutler (WA-03) today announced that she secured $1.5 million in federal funding to support the Vancouver Police Department by providing body-worn cameras for officers and in-car cameras for police patrol vehicles.
The FY22 Commerce, Justice, Science Appropriations bill included funding for this community-supported request seeking federal funds for purchasing 250 body-worn cameras for police officers and to equip 100 police patrol vehicles with in-car cameras. Body-worn and in-car cameras are supported by the City of Vancouver and Vancouver Police Department.
“Body cameras have quickly become the future of police transparency, accountability, and documentation. Across the country, body cameras are being used to show the amazing and selfless things police do on a daily basis, as well as properly document their interactions with the public. The Vancouver Police Officer’s Guild is confident that implementing body cameras locally will have the same effect in our area. Use of body cameras will show the public firsthand the professionalism, compassion, and dedication Vancouver police officers display during the course of their duty to the community every single day,” Jeff Anaya, member of the Vancouver Police Officer’s Guild said.
“Our police officers can use these tools to more safely and effectively protect citizens, and doing so will provide additional transparency to our community. I was pleased to advocate for this funding that will aid officers and support the protection and well-being of the Vancouver community,” Herrera Beutler said.
“The Police Camera Program is a critical recommendation from the Community Task Force on Policing that will enhance safety and transparency for both the public and the Vancouver Police Department. The City is pleased to partner with Congresswoman Herrera Beutler to make this investment in local law enforcement, which will provide them with the tools necessary to build public trust while keeping all of our communities safe,” Vancouver Mayor Anne McEnerny-Ogle said.