In order to remain a leading model in law enforcement the Parker Police Department will begin piloting body worn cameras on March 26, 2015 on selected officers. Parker Police Chief David King states, “In an effort to remain transparent and continue to maintain the public’s trust, the body worn cameras are a tool we’ve chosen to implement for our Department. Policing in the 21st Century has required that law enforcement keep up with not only the Department’s needs but the communities needs as well.”
During the two month pilot program, the Department will implement, test and review policy and procedure, equipment capabilities, data storage and retrieval, redaction and case law and the roll out of department-wide implementation of the program.
Other pilot programs across the nation where body cameras have been implemented by law enforcement agencies have seen significant decreases in both complaints and use-of-force incidents. The Parker Police Department is fortunate to have a positive working relationship with the community and people we serve but this will further enhance policing into the 21st Century and continue the public’s trust they have in us.
Community members who want to learn more about everyday policing and what law enforcement officers do on a daily basis are encouraged to apply for a ride-along with our agency. The primary purpose of a police ride-along is to provide an opportunity for the community to see firsthand the day-to-day workings of law enforcement in Parker. The guest receives important insight into what it means to be a police officer. The Ride-Along Program fosters a better understanding of the challenges, hazards and rewards of the police officer's role in the community.
Parker area residents are also invited to attend the Police Department’s 10-week Citizen Police Academy. The Academy provides participants first-hand information about how the Police Department operates. Classes focus on criminal law, the drug enforcement administration, evidence, dispatch, traffic laws, accident reconstruction, DUI laws, Taser demonstrations, youth education programs and many other topics. In addition to the weekly classes, there is an optional trip to the law enforcement firearms training facility where participants will have the opportunity to fire weapons used by the police officers. All attendees will also be invited to participate in a graduation at the end of the program. Currently, the Spring Academy is full.