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New digital video cameras will be installed in some Los Angeles Police Department patrol cars in an effort to keep a closer watch on how arrests are made—a subject that has been under serious scrutiny after two amateur tapes recently showed officers using unnecessary force.

The $5 million budget it would take to install the cameras was approved by the city council this month and nearly all of the 300 patrol cars in the bureau will be equipped by the end of 2007.

How the Cameras Will Help

According to LAPD Inspector General Andrew Birotte Jr., the cameras are intended to help hold the bureau liable when cops use forceful tactics as well as clear their names when unfounded allegations have been made.

“For that small percentage of officers that want to go on a wayward path, we would hope that those videos would help put them back on track,” he said. “For those officers doing the right thing, if they are accused of misconduct and the video shows otherwise, you have it on tape.”

Amateur Videos

Currently, the LAPD is dealing with the blow from two amateur videos that show police officers using forceful actions. The footage involves shots of two cops holding down an alleged gang member during an August 2006 arrest.

In the videos, one officer can be seen punching the suspect, while another one uses pepper spray on another handcuffed suspect in the patrol car.

Both cops have been cleared of all allegations, though there will be an administrative evaluation to determine whether or not the tactics were within the regulations of the department.

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