CLANTON, Ala. (WIAT)- Police often rely on video evidence when trying to prove a case. Unfortunately, they're usually bound by surveillance cameras and dashboard cameras. Until now.
"If you don't have video, in some of the cases they're reluctant to hear [the case]. The 'he said, she said' days are getting harder and harder to prove a case without video," says Captain David Clackley of the Clanton Police Department. We've all seen the video; high speed chases and convience store robberies beaming into our living rooms thanks to small hidden cameras. In many cases, this video can be vital for the prosecution OR the defendant. "When I hear they don't have video, certainly that's a plus. Then again, it could also be something that could help you," says Attorney Charles Salvagio.
Unfortunately, this evidence goes with a suspect when they walk off frame. That is, until the Clanton Police got a new tool which is literally their eyes in the field.
The Clanton department is using cameras mounted in sunglasses, helping them capture what happens away from the patrol car. "You're moving into 'Mission Impossible' territory where they've got all these gadgets," says Salvagio.
These new tools come in handy especially on drug raids. "As soon as we make entry they're trying to get rid of evidence. You'll have people trying to flush the drugs, they'll be running to avoid us, and when you get to court it's nice to have, instead of just saying he was trying to dispose of the drugs, it's nice to have that evidence of him running through the house," says Cpt. Clackley.
They also come in handy if an officer has to use physical force on a suspect, a situation that can many times lead to a lawsuit. When that times comes, the tiny microchips in the frame of the glasses hold the truth. The glasses cost about $135, but the payout can be much larger. "You have to pay [the officer] until you prove him to be in the wrong. So, even if we only keep from having to do one of those situations, an officers salary for 3-7 days, you could furnish the entire department with those glasses on what it costs to do that," says Cpt. Clackley.
On top of providing evidence, the department uses the footage as a training tool. Just like a football team watches film, the Clanton officers watch their video to see what could've been done differently or better.
Right now, the sunglasses aren't required, but are strongly encouraged.
