Starting October 1, deputies in Los Angeles County jails began wearing body-worn cameras as part of an effort to enhance transparency and accountability. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department purchased 4,641 cameras to be used in facilities like Twin Towers Correctional Facility, Men’s Central Jail, Inmate Reception Center, and the Century Regional Detention Facility. The department aims to improve officer safety and evidence quality with this new technology.
According to the Los Angeles Times, the introduction of body-worn cameras comes amid a rise in inmate deaths this year, with Men’s Central Jail potentially seeing the highest number of in-custody deaths in over two decades. State Attorney General Rob Bonta has filed a lawsuit against the county, citing poor jail conditions and a record number of inmate deaths, including from overdoses, homicides, suicides, and natural causes.
Advocates and oversight officials see the cameras as a positive step, but questions remain about their effective use. Inspector General Max Huntsman emphasized the need for training and proper usage to ensure the cameras provide the intended benefits. However, Peter Eliasberg of the ACLU expressed concerns that without thorough review and accountability, the cameras may not lead to significant changes.
The rollout of body-worn cameras in L.A. County jails marks a significant development in the ongoing efforts to improve conditions and accountability within the facilities. However, effective implementation and oversight remain critical to achieving the desired outcomes.
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