NCJ Number
105280
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 56 Issue: 5 Dated: (May 1987) Pages: 6-9
Date Published
1987
Length
12 pages
Annotation
The police department in Bountiful, Utah, has installed a video camera and portable recorder in a patrol vehicle to enhance its efforts in the State's vigorous enforcement of laws against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Abstract
The State's response to increased concern about drunk driving has included establishing a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent as the presumptive level and requiring immediate confiscation of the license of a suspected impaired driver. The Bountiful Police Department established its program to enhance field officers' testimony in the courtroom. The agency consulted with city legal staff prior to starting the program and established an operational policy reflecting the appropriate legal limits. The camera and recorder must be kept running until the blood alcohol test is given and an interview has been completed. A second camera has been placed in the booking area to film the required events that take place there. Careful procedures are followed to establish the chain of custody of evidence, which is a common focus of attack by defense attorneys. The State provides the funding from liquor sales taxes. The equipment for the program has been purchased locally and includes a low-light-level Panasonic color video camera, audio equipment, high-beam headlights and a 6-inch quartz halogen spotlight. The program has improved department morale, reduced police time in court, and received favorable media coverage and community support. It has caused a defendant to change his plea to guilty and has protected officers in case of alleged damage to a vehicle during a search. Photographs.