The use of high-tech, expensive body cameras has become a big topic in the world of law enforcement. But one state lawmaker thinks there’s a way to utilize a tool to increase accountability that’s already within everyone’s reach.
Democratic Senator Charleta Tavares of Columbus believes body cameras can help police officers do their jobs, shine a light on possible excessive force, or even exonerate officers who are wrongly accused of brutality.
But Tavares has introduced a bill that would strengthen the public’s right to use their own devices, such as phones, to record police altercations.
“They may be further back and see a wider view of what’s taking place. If the body camera is right up on the person…you would have a very narrow view,” said Tavares.
Tavares says helping people understand that they already have the right to record interactions with police is another component of the bill.
