Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office Sets the Standard with New Tasers & Body Cameras
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — In a groundbreaking move, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office (BCSO) is leading the state of New Mexico by equipping all its deputies with state-of-the-art tasers and body cameras. This initiative, which will be fully implemented by next week, aims to prioritize de-escalation techniques and transparency in law enforcement.
Sheriff John Allen emphasized the importance of minimizing the use of deadly force, stating, Deadly force is the last resort that we have and we want to make sure it stays that way. By investing in cutting-edge technology, BCSO is taking significant steps to ensure the safety of both its officers and the community they serve.
The Axon Body 4 camera system and Axon’s Taser 10 model are at the forefront of this transition. The Taser 10 boasts an exceptional extended range, capable of reaching targets up to 45 feet away. This extraordinary capability allows deputies to create distance, providing an additional layer of safety for everyone involved.
The introduction of the Axon Body 4 camera system brings a host of innovative features to the table. Dispatch will now have real-time visibility of the deputies’ whereabouts, enhancing situational awareness. Furthermore, deputies can adjust the camera settings in low-light conditions to ensure optimal recording quality. Sheriff Allen even has the ability to live-stream the camera feed, enabling remote communication and de-escalation efforts, particularly when faced with language barriers or situations involving mental health crises.
Sheriff Allen is enthusiastic about the positive outcomes this technology can achieve, stating, We break down those communication barriers to make sure they succeed with this technology. The BCSO understands that effective law enforcement depends on overcoming obstacles and leveraging tools that enhance officers’ abilities to serve the community while ensuring their own safety.
This significant investment in advanced technology is just the first step for the BCSO. In addition to the new tasers and body cameras, they are also utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) technology to combat retail crime. This multi-faceted approach underscores the BCSO’s commitment to maintaining law and order in a rapidly evolving world.
By becoming the first law enforcement agency in New Mexico to adopt this state-of-the-art equipment, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office is setting a high standard for others to follow. The implementation of these modern tools not only enhances transparency and accountability but also empowers deputies to effectively navigate challenging situations and protect the community they serve. The BCSO’s progressive approach has the potential to inspire positive change beyond state lines, making them an example for others in the law enforcement community to emulate.
