Cameras in Cruisers Provide Undeniable Proof to Convict Drunk Drivers
Cameras in Cruisers Provide Undeniable Proof to Convict Drunk Drivers
By Congresswoman Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)
11/18/2005
Police officers have a new weapon to help fight drunk driving on West Virginias roads and highways a video camera. In-car cameras provide video evidence that gives officers undeniable proof to use in pursuing DUI convictions.
Too many local police and sheriffs departments do not have in-car cameras installed in their cruisers especially in West Virginias more rural communities. To solve this problem, I recently secured $3 million in federal funding for the State of West Virginia to purchase 700 new digital cameras to be installed in police and sheriffs cruisers.
The in-car camera helps law enforcement officers convict drunk drivers in court by presenting a video account of the inebriated motorist. In many cases the video is beyond convincing. The cameras are useful for training new officers on what to do and not to do during a traffic stop. In-car cameras have become a critical element in many court cases and investigations. Officers use the cameras to take statements, review video to prepare for court appearances, and even to help locate evidence like a drug stash or weapon that is thrown from a car during hot pursuit.
The cameras serve as an unbiased third party observer that protects the public and officer alike. The in-car cameras will help protect officers from false claims by providing an objective third party account of events. At the same time motorists will have access to the video in case they need to support a claim.
Earlier this year, I began working with the West Virginia Sheriffs Association along with the Governors Office on Highway Safety to procure funding to equip 700 cruisers. The $3 million in funding is included in legislation (H.R. 2862) that will fund the U.S. Department of Justice. The State of West Virginia will be awarded the funding through a grant sometime in the coming months. I encourage law enforcement to inquire with the Governors Highway Safety Office or my office to learn how to obtain cameras for their departments.
http://capito.house.gov/press_office/detail-page.aspx?id=32&whichone=column