2017 Annual Report

Technological Advancements

Body Worn Cameras and In-Car Video Systems On March 28, the City Council approved an agreement with Taser International, Inc., now Axon, to purchase additional body-worn camera systems which include cameras, associated accessories, mounting and docking station, software interface, and maintenance as well as conducted electrical weapons (tasers) and in-car video systems. Crime Control and Prevention District and grant funding enabled the City to purchase 575 body-worn cameras and implement 350 one-for-one exchange of in-car video systems in FY17. Executing this bundled contract saved the City $3.5 million and works towards the City’s goal to outfit sworn officers with body-worn cameras and patrol vehicles with in-car video systems delivering integrated devices and applications and creating efficiencies for patrol.

Police Body Camera

In-Car Video System

Virtual Reality Simulator for Training The new virtual reality simulator provides realistic training to personnel in a safe environment while exposing them to a multitude of scenarios they may encounter in their day-to-day policing activities. With one instructor and officer, FWPD is able to select from more than 130 scenarios. The scenarios range from traffic stops, working through emotionally charged individuals where de-escalation techniques are essential, and active shooter events. Although these scenarios are computer generated, they are interactive, and the officer is able to interact in each scenario. Once the scenario is completed, the instructor immediately conducts a detailed debriefing with the officer to discuss how the officer handled the situation, which includes the officer’s use of effective verbal commands, de-escalation techniques, and proper force selection such as mace, taser, or deadly force. During the debriefing, the instructor is able to immediately replay the scenario to highlight safety issues the officer may have missed and/or to point out other possible actions the officer may have taken to resolve the situation successfully.

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