Poll: Residents want body cams on

Should Maricopa cops be required to roll their body cameras every time they hit the streets?  

A recent InMaricopa poll found local residents mostly agree they should. 

Nearly 300 people voted. 

About two-thirds of respondents said officers should keep body cameras switched on at all times when on duty. The local opinion was slightly more lenient than national polls from a Washington, D.C.-based polling firm and a civil rights group, which found consensus among 88% of Americans. 

Fewer than 1 in 5 respondents said officers should have the right to turn their camera on or off whenever they want. 

“Maricopa police department can do anything they want they’re protecting us,” Christopher Peterson said. 

One in 10 voters said they do not like body cameras, arguing they infringe on privacy and can expose victims. 

About 7% were indifferent about the use of body cameras. 

Watch: Body camera videos in Maricopa. 

“When approaching a situation, yes,” commented Jaimie Morano, but “not when they aren’t actively pursuing a call.” 

Duane Vick suggested: “Wire them in such a way that if the officer draws his weapon or taser, that it automatically records, including one minute prior.” 

A study from Arizona State University found police officers were more productive and received fewer complaints when equipped with body-worn cameras. 

Read more public safety stories here.