INDIANAPOLIS — IMPD recently announced the ongoing installation of in-car camera systems across the department’s fleet. This is a significant step towards enhancing transparency, accountability, and safety for both officers and residents.
In the 2024 IMPD budget, $591,000 was allocated per year to enhance the body-worn camera and in-car camera program. Part of that includes the purchase and installation of 700 in-car camera systems.
The installation process began in July 2024. Many vehicles in IMPD’s fleet were pre-wired for these cameras, particularly those issued mid-2021, making the installation process swift and efficient. Older vehicles require additional wiring which may extend installation times.
Each marked police vehicle will be equipped with two in-car cameras, one facing forward and the other covering the backseat to document the actions and behaviors of individuals in the back seat.
Cameras are always in a standby state, ready to record. Video and audio recording can be activated manually, by lights/sirens, computer-aided dispatch (CAD), or holster sensors. The cameras also include a 30 second pre-record feature, ensuring critical moments are documented.
The total investment included the purchase of 1,400 cameras to outfit 700 vehicles. This will supplement the 25 IMPD vehicles and eight transport vans which were already equipped with in-car cameras. The initial rollout prioritizes traffic and district cars, which have the highest interaction rates with the community.
In-car camera footage is also a powerful tool in court, offering a reliable perspective that can help clarify events and act as a digital witness.
