Body-worn camera systems will also build community trust, which is essential to effectively serving a city of Portland's size, diversity, and complexity. Body-worn cameras will provide police officers and community members with greater accountability and a better understanding of critical events of public concern. Additionally, body-worn camera systems will facilitate fair and transparent adjudication of criminal and civil matters.
PPB evaluated and scored four vendors who responded to the RFP. After reviewing the vendors written responses and conducting demonstrations of the top two vendors, PPB has selected Axon for the pilot test which is currently planned for early 2023. If all goes well with the pilot, PPB plans to begin contract negotiations for full implementation and hopes to have the system fully installed and in use by the end of 2023. Policy decisions are still being negotiated with the PPA and the policy will be in place prior to the pilot test.