Delete comment from: The War on Guns
I have a really simple solution to this, that will probably never be implemented:
We could install audio and visual recording gear on the the police officer themselves. The data would be collected and stored on a removable memory disk (similar to what you have in a digital camera - except recording all the time). If the cops were honest, this could protect them from lawsuits in court over "he said" arguments & any liability. This could reduce man-hours spent on reporting, and I'm willing to bet the system would pay for it's self.
A 2 megapixel camera (like the ones in cellphones) can be purchased for $10~$20 in bulk, and multiple cameras could be mounted on an officer to ensure (nearly) 360 degree A/V recording. The officer would be required to turn in the memory chip at the end of the day, which would be automatically synchronized with their time-reporting system to verify proper recording length and untampered files. A GPS chip, and wireless emergency notification system (triggered if the officer goes prone or draws their weapon).... The military has been playing with this sort of technology for a while, and it's rumored to be used by recon troops.
I am manufacturing a prototype for my car right now - all of the components (6 cameras, Arduino, SD writer, 8gb SD card, board, wiring, &c...) has cost me less than $200. The computer of my system is the size of my wallet. My next project is to make one for my body to demo infront of city council.
No need to arrest citizens for recording the police, the police should be recording themselves.
Jan 12, 2010, 2:12:24 PM