The Leon County Sheriff’s Office has received a grant to expand body cameras into the booking and medical areas of the jail.
Certain detention deputies will be equipped with body-worn cameras for more transparency and accountability. The sheriff’s office says it’s also an effort to maintain open communication with the community.
The latest funding is part of over $3.1 million in grants the office has secured since 2023.
Here's the press release from LCSO:
The Leon County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) is expanding its body-worn camera program to the booking and medical processes at the Leon County Detention Facility (LCDF), enhancing transparency and accountability.
As part of a recent initiative, the LCSO was awarded grant funding from the Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Assistance, to equip certain Detention Deputies with body-worn cameras. This technology aims to strengthen the agency’s commitment to building trust within the community and ensuring greater transparency in interactions at the LCDF.
“This expansion of our body-worn camera program is an important step in maintaining open communication with our community. We believe that transparency is essential in fostering a relationship of mutual respect and understanding between law enforcement, detainees, staff and the public,” said Sheriff Walt McNeil.
"We are also committed to protecting the privacy of individuals in custody. The footage will be managed in compliance with all legal standards and privacy regulations to ensure that sensitive information is protected,” said McNeil.
LCSO’s commitment to responsible use of resources is evident, with over $3.1 million in grants secured since 2023, supporting efficient services to the community.