Daviess County Sheriff’s Office introduces first body worn cameras

OWENSBORO, Ky. (WEHT) — Deputies in the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office are getting new technology to increase safety measures. For the first time ever, the deputies will have body cameras.

Daviess County Sheriff Brad Youngman says he’s been working since 2023 to start incorporating body worn cameras into their daily operations; it’s technology officials say they have never had access too but will incorporate with the help of a $40,000 5-year commitment from the Daviess County Fiscal Court.

Sheriff Youngman says its an important step in opening a door for transparency and trust between the office and society.

“…There’s plenty of room there for abuse. I think that by having cameras out there on the street capturing the the images, the atmosphere, the noises, the sounds, the voices…you can play that video. There’s not much you can do to kind of dispute that,” says Sheriff Youngman.

The body worn cameras will also allow deputies to take quality on scene photos through a built in high megapixel camera. Officials say the camera feature will replace their purchase of 10 cameras annually that essentially produces lower quality documentation.

Body worn cameras are not the only addition. Deputies will also be issued Stop Sticks and BolaWraps.

A brief demonstration emulates a pursuit with a Stop Stick thrown into the mix to deflate the tires of the suspect and ultimately shorten the time span of citizens at risk. A real Stop Stick is composed of a foam round holding spikes that release when ran over.

Eyewitness News’ Sydney Davis got the chance to play suspect and test the BolaWrap out. The BolaWrap can be deployed up to 25 feet away and help in situations involving lapses in mental health or non compliant suspects.

Law enforcement says suspects should feel no pain and are temporarily restrained. Every patrol deputy will be issued one of these devices in an effort to minimize harm to all parties.

The rope cartridges are designed with hooks on both ends that gently tie up suspects.

Cpl. Nick Hines says he can think of several instances in the past where the wrap would have been helpful.

“I could think of 10 within the last two months where I personally could have used it. For the cameras…every instance that I’ve interacted with people, I could definitely have used a camera in some way, shape or form…whether it be just looking back on it for report purposes,” says Cpl. Hines.

Officials say policy will request cameras be turned on in any instance of citizen interaction.

All devices are being implemented immediately.

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