RPSO deputies to wear body cameras

Beginning Sept. 1, the Richland Parish Sheriff’s Office will implement the Portable Video Management System, which includes a portable digital recording device (body worn camera).  

The body worn cameras are designed to record both audio and video of the field of activity.  

RPSO began researching body worn cameras in 2013 as a way to update the office’s technology in an effort to better improve the quality of life, service and reduce crime in Richland Parish. 

Sheriff Lee Harrell said the department obtained 30 Taser Axon body worn cameras and 30 X26P Tasers which were funded partially by a grant. 

“All patrol deputies will wear a personally assigned camera plus we have spares and our investigators will be assigned cameras for designated wear times,” Harrell said. “The body worn cameras will increase deputies accountability, gather evidence for criminal cases, provide a measure of safety to our deputies and enhance our transparency.  In today’s environment, as we have seen around the country, we need to increase and modernize our toolboxes.  These cameras are just that another tool to assist us in the performance of our duties.”

The cameras will be activated on all traffic stops and citizens contact by the patrol deputies.  CID will utilize the cameras when conducting warrant round-ups, during the execution of search warrants and high risk warrants.