FPC approves body camera policy, but citizens voice concerns: "Our city is putting the community on hold"

MILWAUKEE -- By next week, some Milwaukee police will be equipped with body cameras. Milwaukee Fire and Police Commission approved the standard operating procedure for the body cameras Thursday, October 15th. But certain members of the public say their input was ignored.

The long awaited decision was met with approval. Some Milwaukee police officers will be wearing body cameras and Thursday night the FPC agreed on exactly how they will be used.

"The policy was carefully crafted and based on extensive research that has withstood scrutiny," said Milwaukee Police Chief Ed Flynn.

By spring of 2016, 1,200 officers will be equipped with the cameras. They will be worn at all times, turned on when police are on a scene, and turned off at times -- like when a child or sexual assault victim is interviewed.

"I think we've lost sight of what people really were looking for here," said Mary Watkins, concerned citizen.

The approval is met with some concern as members of the community say their input has been ignored.

"We're not going to move forward in Milwaukee until they continuously include our communities in their decisions," said Maria Hamilton, Dontre Hamilton's mother.

Maria Hamilton's son, Dontre, was killed by a police officer in 2014.

"Once again, our city is putting the community on hold," said Hamilton.

"I think it's fair to observe it is the same group of people coming to every single meeting, saying the exact same thing," said Flynn.

The policy can be reversed and will be audited by the Fire and Police Commission.

"It's a living document, it will be adjusted in light of our own experience," said Flynn.

Though there is disagreement, both sides say they want what is best for the community moving forward.

A community forum was held to get input; revisions were made to the policy.  Public input was not sought again after the revisions were made.

The cameras will be rolled out in phases -- 1,200 officers should have them by March, 2016.