Guthrie Police to install dash cameras inside patrol units

The Guthrie Police Department will soon be adding technology to their patrol cars with the addition of dashboard cameras.

Earlier this month the city council approved the purchase of five systems that will be placed inside each patrol vehicle.

“They are a great tool for law enforcement,” Police Chief Damon Devereaux said.

The primary use of the in-car video system is to document traffic contacts and arrests for the purpose of submitting the video and audio as evidence in court proceedings. The cameras will also assist with the internal investigations when a complaint is filed against an officer.

Law enforcement and police oversight agencies tout the technology as a way to provide objective evidence, particularly in controversial encounters that otherwise might rely on dueling accounts of what occurred.

According to one source, In-car videos are widely used by police nationwide. About 72 percent of state and highway patrol cars have them.

The total cost for the system to go into the five vehicles is listed at $27,890 by Digital Ally.