The challenge

In early 2022, the Montpelier, Vermont, Police Department (MPD) was looking for a new body-worn camera (BWC) solution for its patrol officers. The department was already using an in-car video system, says Montpelier Police Chief Brian Peete, but his patrol officers needed far more capabilities in the field. This search was prompted as part of an effort by the police force to regain legitimacy and community trust, as well as document emergency responses and crime scenes. 

industry

Public Safety

First Responders

region

Vermont, USA

THE SOLUTION

• Smartphone body camera with Kyocera DuraSport 5G
• Visual Labs Software*

*Additional fees may apply.

key benefits

• Rugged, Waterproof, Dust Proof
• Affordable
• Long Battery Life
• Dedicated App Activation Button
• Glove & Wet Touchscreen Operation
• Drop & Shock Resistant
• Biometric Authentication via facial recognition or fingerprint sensor 
• Android Enterprise Recommended for enhanced security
• 2-Year Standard Manufacturer’s Warranty

Chief Peete conducted an Initial Organizational Assessment and Strategic Plan which recommended the implementation of MPD acquire BWCs. The Montpelier City Council then created a Police Review Committee that recommended the implementation of a BWC program, resulting in the authorization to allocate funds to support MPD’s new BWC Program. In March 2022, the budget was approved by the voters. 

The City of Montpelier then issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) seeking a CJIS-compliant, comprehensive body-worn camera and in-vehicle camera system from a qualified vendor.

THE SOLUTION

After evaluating responses to the RFD, MPD chose the Visual Labs smartphone BWC solution, as well as Visual Labs’ in-vehicle camera solution to replace its existing in-vehicle system. After evaluating various hardware options, MPD ultimately chose Kyocera’s DuraSport 5G UW, a ruggedized smartphone. This rugged smartphone meets IP-68 and MIL-STD-810H testing for water and dust resistance and durability. With its large, programmable side button, officers are able to quickly start a video recording. “It’s a very good functional tool. It does more than a typical body-worn camera would,” MPD Chief Brian Peete said, adding “It’s easy to operate, it’s user friendly and I think it’s something that is very beneficial. With the body-worn camera systems, the information uploads to the cloud as soon as the camera button goes off.” 

With the combination of Kyocera hardware and Visual Labs software, MPD ended up with a “Body Worn Computer” capable of far more than a traditional stand-alone device, which also provides backup communication. In addition, the Visual Labs option is much more cost efficient than many BWC technologies, allowing MPD to be responsible stewards of tax dollars.