NAPLES, Fla. — One Southwest Florida city is dropping big money to get new camera technology for its patrol cars. Wednesday, Naples City Council approved spending $117,500 to upgrade the cameras in all twenty-five of their patrol vehicles.
Captain John Barkley of the Naples Police Department said the cameras are a necessary tool in providing proof during a traffic stop.
"It eliminates any guess work on the officer's part, or for pretty much any testimony in court," Barkley said.
But the cameras currently in their cars are outdated - and sometimes, out of order.
"We've had microphones go bad, and unfortunately we'll have video with no audio," Barkley said.
He said the cameras have larger monitors, easier playback and storage, and - unlike the old cameras - don't hang down and block any part of the windshield.
The cameras also record suspects in the backseat. Barkley said the multiple angles will provide a much clearer of what goes on during a traffic stop or arrest, which is vital when a suspect gets violent.
"It can be incredible important, especially if the officer is attacked," he said.
The new camera system should be installed in all 25 vehicles by the end of March.
