San Bernardino County Jail Deputies to Receive Body-Worn Cameras Following $1.5 Million Federal Funding
San Bernardino County Sheriff's deputies working in the county's jails will soon be equipped with body-worn cameras, marking a significant step toward enhancing transparency and accountability in law enforcement. This initiative is made possible through federal funding secured by Rep. Young Kim, R-Chino Hills, and is part of an ongoing effort by the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department to expand the use of this technology across its operations.
Federal Funding Secured for Body-Worn Cameras
Last week, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, along with Rep. Young Kim, announced the allocation of $1.5 million in federal funding dedicated to equipping corrections deputies with body-worn cameras. The funding will not only cover the purchase of approximately 200 new cameras but also finance the necessary infrastructure to support their deployment in the county jails.
“What these body-worn cameras do is provide evidence, whether it’s evidence to help convict the suspects or evidence for a crime scene,” said San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus in a video announcement about the initiative. “And the other side of that is also the transparency for the public.”
Commitment to Transparency and Accountability
The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has consistently prioritized the implementation of body-worn cameras, highlighting its commitment to maintaining high standards of professionalism and public trust. In a statement, the department emphasized that the deployment of these cameras is a clear demonstration of their dedication to transparency and accountability in their law enforcement practices.
Since the initial deployment of body-worn cameras in August 2023, the department has steadily expanded their use. According to county spokeswoman Gloria Huerta, the first phase involved distributing cameras to patrol stations earlier this year. The second phase, which began in July, extended the rollout to specialized divisions and resident posts, with approximately 1,000 cameras now in use.
Phase Three: Equipping Corrections Deputies
The third phase of the body-worn camera rollout will focus on corrections deputies within San Bernardino County jails. The $1.5 million secured by Rep. Kim will enable the completion of this phase, with an expected full implementation by September 2025. This expansion underscores the county’s strategic approach to enhancing both officer safety and public accountability through advanced technological solutions.
“Our law enforcement put themselves in harm’s way to keep our communities safe,” said Rep. Kim in a statement. “I am proud to secure vital federal resources for the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department to purchase body camera and taser equipment, so law enforcement can better do their jobs and ensure deputies follow accountability practices. Protecting public safety will always be a top priority for me as your representative.”
Support from County Leadership
San Bernardino County officials have expressed their gratitude for Rep. Kim’s efforts in securing the funding, recognizing the shared commitment to improving public safety, and equipping deputies with the necessary tools to effectively perform their duties. Board of Supervisors Chairman and 3rd District Supervisor Dawn Rowe stated, “Public safety, public trust, and providing law enforcement with the resources they need are among San Bernardino County’s highest priorities. We are grateful to Congresswoman Kim for her support and advocacy.”
District 4 Supervisor Curt Hagman echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of the funding in enhancing public safety through advanced technology. “This funding represents a major milestone in our ongoing efforts to enhance public safety through advanced technology,” Hagman said. “Collaborating with Congresswoman Young Kim has enabled us to secure the essential resources needed to enhance officer safety and strengthen community trust. By equipping our deputies with these state-of-the-art body cameras, we’re setting a new standard for transparency and accountability in law enforcement.”
A Broader Effort in National Funding
The funding for the body-worn cameras is part of the 2024 Consolidated Appropriations Act, which includes a package of six federal spending bills that fund a wide array of local projects nationwide. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, known as the law enforcement agency for the nation’s largest geographical county, serves over 2.1 million residents through eight county stations and 14 stations in contract cities.
With more than 4,200 employees, the department continues to prioritize advancements in technology and resources to better serve the community. The introduction of body-worn cameras for corrections deputies in San Bernardino County is a critical advancement in law enforcement practices, reflecting a broader commitment to transparency, accountability, and public safety. Through the dedicated efforts of local and federal leaders, the Sheriff’s Department is set to enhance its operations with state-of-the-art technology that benefits both the officers and the communities they serve.