Nash County Sheriff's Office implements body cameras

A press release from the sheriff’s office said that 28 cameras were purchased at a cost of $23,000 and were funded through a federal grant.

Authorities said the cameras will record about 16 hours of video.

“We are excited at the opportunity to increase the trust that already exists with our citizens. We have worked hard to have an open door policy and this is part of the openness and transparency that we want with those that trust us to keep them safe,” said Sheriff Keith Stone

The sheriff’s office said they anticipate additional federal grant money will aid in the purchase of more units that could be used by other divisions within the sheriff’s office.

Other local law enforcement agencies have considered implementing body cameras including the Durham Police Department, which held several forums in 2015 to get public input on the devices.

On Wednesday, however, a group of representatives from the North Carolina Sheriff’s Association and the Association of Police Chiefs argued that law enforcement agencies should not be required to use body cameras. North Carolina Sheriff’s Association spokesman Eddie Caldwell said that each department should have the authority to decide to implement the devices, if desired.

“We don’t have legislation that mandates use of guns, cars, handcuffs, pepper spray, Taser, or any other equipment that law enforcement has,” said Caldwell. “That’s what the head of agencies are elected or appointed to manage for their agencies.”