Sen. Lewis and Rep. Day Announce Grant for Body-worn Camera Program

BOSTON—State Senator Jason Lewis and State Representative Michael Day are pleased to announce that the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security (EOPSS) is awarding the Stoneham Police Department a $250,000 state grant to establish a body-worn camera (BWC) program to improve officer and community safety.

This funding aims to improve public safety; enhance community-police relations; foster better accountability for the actions of police personnel; deter inappropriate conduct by police officers and members of the public; capture digital audio-video evidence (for criminal, civil and traffic-related court cases); and serve as a training tool for officer safety and best practices.

“I’m very pleased that the Stoneham Police Department will receive this state assistance to implement their Body-worn Camera Program,” said State Senator Jason Lewis. “This technology will increase transparency and provide benefits to both police officers and the public they serve.”

“Body cameras play a crucial role in modern law enforcement by providing an extra layer of safety for our officers while also building a bridge of trust with our community,” said State Representative Michael Day. “I applaud the Stoneham Police Department for pursuing this funding to promote transparency and acquire tools that will help them continue to serve the residents of Stoneham so well.”

“We are grateful for the support from Governor Healy, Senator Lewis, Representative Day and the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security," said Stoneham Police Chief James O’Connor. "Body Worn Cameras will not only assist us in delivering safe and effective police service, they are also vital in building public trust, transparency and accountability, within our community.”