Lapel Cameras Become Important Tool For Police

DENVER (CBS4)- Cameras that fit on the lapel can record what police officers see and are considered a useful tool for certain investigations. The big drawback to many departments undergoing budget cuts is that the cameras can be expensive.

A local company that supplies equipment to police forces said the equipment is becoming a useful tool in police work.

"It records their voices, records the interaction between the officers and the person they're talking to," said Adamson Police Products spokesman John Rogers.

In Albuquerque, the police force has about 800 lapel cameras. Officers are already seeing the benefits.

Officer Robert Gibbs described a domestic violence scene where the victim couldn't read or write.

"I basically got a video statement from her," said Gibbs. "In addition to her telling me what happened, I'm also able to document her injuries."

Gibbs said the cameras have also helped exonerate several cops who have had complaints against them. The recording also works the other way, keeping law enforcement in check.

"You have your camera on, you get into a situation, you know that everything's being captured," said Gibbs.

In an effort to increase transparency within the Denver Police Department, mayoral candidate Chris Romer called for the cameras.

"They're not cheap, the quality and technology has them running right around $900," said Rogers.