More technology to assist police work

It’s smaller than a cell phone but it is one of the most important pieces of equipment Marion police officers carry — a video camera.

The small video camera can be placed on an officer’s belt, shirt, or vest.

Police chief Josh Whitwell showed the little marvel to the city council Monday evening.

The camera has full range of motion and full audio.

“We looked at raising money for in-car cameras,” Whitwell said. “They’re expensive and they only show what is directly in front of the camera.”

The personal video cameras were more affordable at $120 each. Four were purchased for three full-time officers and one part-time officer.

“It sees what we see,” Whitwell explained.

He said it will allow officers to collect more evidence when answering calls or conducting investigations; it will protect officers and the public. The video can be downloaded on a computer. The camera has a rechargeable lithium battery.

The public shouldn’t be surprised that their conversations and actions are being recorded, Whitwell said.

“People generally know there is more recording going on,” he said.