January 7, 2004
Press Release

COPS Technology Grant Award Presentation

Formal Presentation of award to Sheriff Michael J. Brown by:

Congressman Virgil Goode and Congressman Bob Goodlatte Present Sheriff Brown with $25,000 Award

> Right: Congressman Virgil Goode, (l) and Congressman Bob Goodlatte (r) each present the COPS Technology awards to Bedford City Police Chief Milton Graham and Sheriff Mike Brown

What is a COPS Technology grant?
A COPS Technology grant provides funding for the continued development of technologies and automated systems to assist state and local law enforcement agencies in investigating, responding to and preventing crime. This funding will allow recipients the opportunity to establish and enhance a variety of technical equipment and/or programs to encourage the continuation and enhancement of community policing efforts within their jurisdictions. The COPS Office developed this grant program to place departments at the forefront of innovative technological developments.

Officer/Citizen Safety
The Bedford County Sheriff’s Office will utilize the COPS Technology grant funding to equip Road Officers with On-Dash Camera systems. With Bedford being a very diversified county of rural and suburban areas, it covers over 750 square miles. In order for this agency to patrol the area and properly respond to calls, officers ride alone, making officer safety the utmost of priorities.

< Left: Deputy Ryan Nash gives Congressman Goodlatte and live demonstration on the operation of the in-car camera system.

Everyday, law enforcement is faced with greater challenges put upon them by the public whether it’s false claims or allegations. These cameras are the extra set of eyes for an officer. Video records of the actual stop better prepares an officer for court, eliminates the possibility of forgotten details and at times, results in plea agreements when the evidence is presented in video form. It is also speculated by this agency, that when the public is made aware of the video cameras, it is less likely that physical confrontations between irate drivers and Deputies will occur.

Tapes are utilized as a valuable training tool for new officers to critique traffic stops and behaviors of those involved. On-dash cameras not only protect the rights and actions of an officer, it is protection for any citizen that may be involved in a traffic stop made by a Deputy.

Bedford County Sheriff’s Office currently has 8 of its patrol vehicles equipped with cameras, leaving 23 Road Deputies without such protection. This funding has made it possible for this agency to add an additional 7 cameras to the fleet for a total of 15 vehicles being equipped.

“This document was prepared by Bedford County Sheriff’s Office supported by 2003CKWX01963, awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice. The opinions and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this document are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the U.S. Department of Justice.”

Contact: Robin Sundquist – Admin Officer – 540.586.4800