Beginning November fifth, 11 body-worn cameras will be part of the Riley County Police Department’s equipment–and a public affairs video will be unveiled in the next week to further explain how the cameras will be used.
Captain Tim Hegarty told Riley County Law Board members about plans for the cameras Monday, with a sneak preview of the video provided. Hegarty was asked about the peripheral angle of the devices, and said it closely replicates the human eye.
Other questions dealt with when the cameras would be turned on, which would be up to the officer but based on specific protocols.
The video is expected to be ready for the public and Youtube in the next week. KMAN participated in the shooting of the video and Hegarty will be a guest on KMAN’s “In Focus” this coming Friday.
The item was for discussion only and to provide a quick preview of the video. Board members did unanimously approve two general order recommendations Monday regarding changes in the promotion process and training protocols.
While there are ordinances regarding pedestrians and walking in the street, Riley County Law Board member Ron Wells asked during Monday’s law board meeting about lack of enforcement of such regulations.
While RCPD Director Brad Schoen seemed to agree it could save a life sometime, but also indicated there might be limitations. Schoen talked about literally walking a fine line–adding he didn’t think they wanted the local police department to be known as the “you’re in the street police.”
Board member Dave Lewis also mentioned problems along Hayes Drive, with a lot of pedestrian traffic.
And a reminder, when a sidewalk is not present, pedestrians in the roadway are supposed to walk facing the flow of traffic.
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