Body Camera Grant Application Window Opens

Law enforcement agencies will now have assistance implementing body camera programs following Gov. Mike DeWine's announcement on Tuesday regarding $5 million in grant funding. This grant money is now available, thanks to the Ohio Body-Worn Camera Grant Program, and can be used for equipment and any other costs related to body camera programs. 

"Body cameras are beneficial for peace officers and the public because they act as impartial eyes on events as they transpire, but most law enforcement agencies in Ohio don't have them because they can't afford them," Gov. DeWine said in a statement.

This funding - $10 million in total - was made available through the state's two-year operating budget. Funding will be prioritized for agencies with officers who regularly interact with the public and do not have a body camera program currently in place, but agencies with existing programs are still encouraged to apply. Law enforcement agencies that apply must be in compliance with crime statistics reporting and must meet the Ohio Community-Police Collaborative's body-worn camera standard. If an agency does not meet the latter, a pre-award condition will apply which will require certification before the money is released. 

The grant money will be administered through the Office of Criminal Justice Services. Applications are due October 8 at 5:00 PM and must be submitted online.

You can find more information at https://www.ocjs.ohio.gov/#gsc.tab=0. and the Body-Worn Camera Grant Program Request for Proposals https://assets.noviams.com/novi-file-uploads/ota/bwc_program.pdf