NEWPORT, R.I. (AP) — Newport’s city manager is recommending that city police officers start wearing body cameras.
The Newport Daily News reports that interim City Manager Joseph Nicholson said in a memorandum this week that he came to the decision after consulting with police department representatives.
The city council adopted a resolution in May that called on the administration to consider a one-year pilot program.
Nicholson says the initiative would involve different city departments. The council would have to address privacy concerns and develop camera use policies.
He says at least 35 states are working on body camera legislation and officers’ attitudes toward them have changed over time.
Chief Gary Silva didn’t comment on the recommendation. Nicholson’s proposal must be approved by the city council.
