MPD starts body-worn camera pilot program

MADISON, Wis.- The Madison Police Department started its body-worn camera pilot program on Monday. 

Last summer, the Common Council voted in favor of the 90-day pilot program for officers in Madison’s north district.

These officers and their supervisors spent the past few weeks learning how the technology and cameras work. Professional staff were also taught how to access the video storage and handle public requests for video.

The department is using Panasonic cameras for the pilot program. This is the same system currently used by the department’s SWAT team and motorcycle-riding patrol officers.

An independent researcher has been hired to study the program and report his findings to department and city leaders.

“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.,” Madison Chief of Police Shon Barnes said.

Madison is one of the largest cities in the state without body-worn cameras. In 2020, more than 60 percent of Wisconsin law enforcement agencies responded to a state Department of Justice survey reporting their officers used body-worn cameras.

July 14 is the final day for MPD’s pilot program. The Dane County Sheriff’s Office is also piloting body-worn cameras this year.