Houston Metro Police to Enhance Service with Body Cameras

In a move to strengthen service, the The Metropolitan Transit Authority of Harris County (Metro) Board unanimously approved issuing body cameras to Metro police (MPD) officers as part of their regular uniforms.   

"Our officers are excited about this. We see this as an enhancement not only for our officers but for our employees and patrons," said MPD Chief Vera Bumpers.

The $184,125 contract with Watch Guard includes the purchase and implementation of the 195 cameras.  They will provide new surveillance capability for security purposes. Each camera costs $699, and all officers as well as sergeants will wear the units. 

"We are pleased to take this step.  We expect this program to enhance our police department from an investigative and training perspective as well as  strengthen community trust in law enforcement with increased transparency and accountability," said Board Chair Carrin Patman.

Anticipated delivery and roll-out of the new security program is projected to take six months. 

Camera data is planned for storage on MPD's video management system for 90 days unless it is classified as evidence.  Storage of the video data will require the purchase of additional hardware with an estimated cost of $253,015.