Title
Staff Report for a Resolution Approving the Sole Source Purchase of Ten (10) Additional Body Worn Digital Video Cameras for $30,094.96 under the Existing TASER International Contract and City Council Approval of an Appropriation of $30,094.96 from the Police Special Grant Fund - Frontline Enforcement Program Fund Balance
Staffreport
SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The utilization of body worn cameras by police personnel assists in criminal prosecution and risk management. In accordance with prior City Council approval, the department deploys 80 body worn cameras to field staff officers and support personnel.
Staff recommends that the City Council make a finding under California Public Contract Code section 3400(c)(2) that to match existing equipment and systems currently in use, a sole source procurement is justified, and that the City Manager or his designee is authorized to make a purchase of an additional ten (10) body worn digital video cameras through an amendment to the pre-existing contract with TASER International to align with this recommendation. Staff also recommends that the City Council approve the transfer of $30,094.96 from the Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Fund (SLESF) grant (aka "Frontline") fund balance to make this purchase.
BACKGROUND
The San Leandro Police Department handles an average of 90,000 calls for service per year. Risk management issues and allegations of police misconduct consume considerable resources for police departments throughout the United States and the San Leandro Police Department is no exception. With the advent of cellular telephones with photo and video capabilities, recorded documentation of an event can be captured by citizens after police action has begun and often does not provide a complete depiction of the incident, particularly from the officer's perspective.
Given this environment, a digital body camera program is essential in effectively balancing community interest and officer safety. ...
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