Agenda Text
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Supporting full implementation of body worn cameras by sworn personnel in the Police Department.
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Official Text
WHEREAS, Significant evidence exists that body worn cameras on sworn police personnel are a critical tool that increases transparency and accountability of policing, and preserve important records of same; and
WHEREAS, The Administration has vigorously pursued full implementation of body worn cameras for sworn personnel in the Somerville Police Department since at least 2015; and
WHEREAS, The City has been unable to reach an agreement with its police unions or an award from an arbitrator to allow the City to implement body worn cameras; and
WHEREAS, The Mayor and the Somerville Board of Health have declared systemic racism a public health and safety threat; and
WHEREAS, Somerville residents, Somerville police officers, and the broader community should not have to continue to wait for the implementation of this vital public safety necessity; and
WHEREAS, Communities across the Commonwealth and the nation have taken this step to serve the public safety interests of their communities, and it has become a standard progressive law enforcement tool; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT
RESOLVED, That the Mayor and Somerville City Council take all steps for full implementation of body worn cameras for police officers; AND BE IT FURTHER
RESOLVED, That the City of Somerville explore all options for such implementation; AND BE IT FURTHER
RESOLVED, That the Mayor and Somerville City Council commit to efforts to gain the support of its police unions on this issue; AND BE IT FURTHER
RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be sent to all members of our State Delegation and to the Governor.