Madison Reporter

MADISON, Wis.- The Madison Police Department has officially launched its body-worn camera pilot program on Monday. The initiative follows the Common Council's decision last summer to approve the 90-day pilot program for officers in Madison’s north district.

Officers and their supervisors have dedicated the past few weeks to familiarizing themselves with the technology and cameras being used in the program. Professional staff have also undergone training on accessing video storage and managing public requests for video footage.

The department has opted to utilize Panasonic cameras for the pilot program, the same system currently employed by the department’s SWAT team and motorcycle-riding patrol officers. An independent researcher has been enlisted to evaluate the program and present findings to department and city leaders.

Madison Police Chief Shon Barnes expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, "This pilot program represents a pivotal stride toward our vision of becoming a National Model for Exceptional Policing through our unwavering commitment to selfless public service, effective community partnerships, and evidence-based policing practices."

Despite being one of the largest cities in the state without body-worn cameras, Madison is now taking steps to align with the trend. In 2020, over 60 percent of Wisconsin law enforcement agencies disclosed their officers' use of body-worn cameras in response to a state Department of Justice survey.

The pilot program is scheduled to conclude on July 14. Notably, the Dane County Sheriff’s Office is also in the process of piloting body-worn cameras this year.