Atlantic City Cops Use Body Cameras to Record Traffic Stop Activities

In the wake of the Grand Jury decisions in Ferguson and New York to not indict police officers, communities all across New Jersey are calling for some extra protection in the way of body cameras. In August, shortly after the Ferguson shooting of Michael Brown, Atlantic City joined about two dozen other NJ law enforcement agencies in wearing the body cameras during patrols.

Back when Brown, a teenager, was shot and killed by a Ferguson copy in August, people around the country believed there would be a clearer view of what happened in the incident had it been caught on tape. Following the failure to indict the officer who shot and killed Brown, the call for body cameras is even stronger.

There are plenty of people who also add another interesting voice to the discussion; they believe that cops who know they are being filmed may be more apt to follow the strict guidelines associated with traffic stops and other related situation. On the other hand, the cameras self-delete recorded footage unless the officer pushes a button that saves the video and audio.

It stands to reason that an officer in the heat of duty may not push the save button making the collar-mounted video cameras a moot point in some cases.

Atlantic City law enforcement officials are no strangers to excessive force allegations. There was even one situation where a cop was accused of having his K-9 dog attack a man to subdue him.

There are over 20 departments in New Jersey currently using cameras. Many towns are obtaining the body cameras from a company called Taser International, Inc. Officers in these departments are required to wear the cameras, which cost $300 each, on their collars.

If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges arising from a traffic stop or any other situation in Atlantic or Cape May counties, contact an experienced lawyer who will fight your charges. Call John W. Tumelty for a free consultation about your case.