In commitment to further enhancing public safety on campus, the Virginia Tech Police Department has begun issuing body-worn cameras to all officers.
The cameras will help ensure the best possible service on behalf of the department and the safety of officers on campus. The cameras will assist in department investigations and provide a greater degree of transparency for the public.
Body-worn camera installment comes after a yearlong review process and a successful two-week pilot period. The body-worn cameras will integrate with the in-car camera systems currently in use in Virginia Tech police cruisers.
Use of the cameras will be governed by standard operating procedures common in law enforcement agencies and monitored by supervisory personnel.
“The body-worn cameras are another tool in our kit that helps us to serve the community to the best of our ability,” said Virginia Tech Police Chief Kevin Foust. “Body-worn cameras will allow us to continue to provide great service to those we serve by allowing for even greater accountability and training opportunities, while also providing additional protection for our officers.”
“Our Police Department employees are very committed to ensuring the safety of Virginia Tech students, faculty, staff, and visitors,” said Sherwood Wilson, vice president for operations. “Body-worn cameras are becoming common practice in the law enforcement community. The implementation of these devices is another indicator to the campus community of the professionalism of our team.”
The Virginia Tech Police Department is a full-service, nationally accredited police agency that provides the same level of service offered by municipal police departments, as well as other services unique to an academic institution. The department collaborates closely with Blacksburg Police Department, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, and other local law enforcement agencies.
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