"We needed these things yesterday:" MPD pushes back final phase to roll out body cameras

MPD pushes back final phase to roll out body cameras

MPD pushes back final phase to roll out body cameras

MILWAUKEE -- The final phase to roll out body cameras for Milwaukee police officers has been pushed back. Originally slated for an October release, the final phase will now be pushed to the end of the year.

In a letter to the Fire and Police Commission, the Urban Institute requested the final phase be pushed back to allow researchers to gather more data with officers who don't yet have the cameras.

The Urban Institute is working with MPD on a study about how effective the body camera program is. They're also evaluating whether there's anything about it that can be improved -- but some aren't happy about the delay.

"It's no need for them to push these things back, we needed these things yesterday," said Tory Lowe, community organizer.

Tory Lowe

Lowe says the sooner all the cameras get on the streets, the better.

"These cameras are for the urban community, they're to create the trust. So why not hurry up and get these things in place and move on to something else," said Lowe.

But Brian Dorow of Waukesha County Technical College says it's really been in the last year that body cameras have taken off. Which means studying the technology could have benefits for both MPD and other communities thinking about getting the cameras.

"Anytime new technology is introduced to law enforcement you certainly want to make sure the technology that you're embracing is impactful --  is it what it's intending to do is, it accomplishing that goal," said Dorow.

So far, Milwaukee police rolled out 450 body cameras with more to come in June and December. By the end of the final phase, there will be 1,200 body cameras. Enough to equip every street officer and sergeant with the technology.