Ferndale Approves Body 
Cameras for Police
Ferndale, MI – Ferndale City Council voted Monday to order 30 body-worn cameras and software for police to wear while on duty, as well as to replace in-car cameras with newer models.
The cams will come from Watchguard at a cost of $120,846.20 and includes a three year warranty and licensing.
According to a press release from the City, the equipment won’t be put into use immediately. 
Sgt. Tim Andre, who has been leading the initiative, said “We’re taking our time and making sure we do it right. We’ll spend the next few months on implementation and training, and then we’ll launch in January. Not everyone will have a camera at first. For the first three months, the equipment will be worn by just two officers per shift.”
The software includes a redaction function, which is important for protecting the privacy of people the police may encounter in doing their jobs.
“We have to make sure we keep legal and sensitive information and the identities of youth and minors private,” Andre said.
Mayor Dave Coulter supported the initiative, stating on Facebook “It’s an important part of
our community policing initiative to increase public trust and help protect officers.”
The City of Ferndale and the Ferndale Police Department will update the community when the body camera initiative officially launches in January. In the meantime, if you have questions about body cameras or their associated technologies, contact the Ferndale Police Department at 248-541-3650.
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