Pilot project would allow King County sheriff's deputies to wear body cameras

SEATTLE -- Legislation that would create a pilot project for King County sheriff's deputies to wear body cameras has been introduced in the King  County Council, it was announced Friday.

"The data is clear:  Body cameras are highly effective in both reducing complaints against officers and reducing instances of inappropriate use of force by officers," said County Councilman Dave Upthegrove, who proposed the legislation.

“I am confident that once fully implemented body cameras will help to build more trust between officers and the communities they are sworn to protect.”

Upthegrove’s legislation also would set up a task force to develop county policies to address a wide variety of concerns, including individual privacy and public disclosure issues.

“Body cameras are a great idea but it is extremely important that we also protect the privacy of victims, children and other innocent bystanders," Upthegrove said. "We will work through all of these issues before deputies are wearing cameras on patrol."

King County Sheriff John Urquhart expressed his support for body cameras.

The legislation is expected to be referred to the Law, Justice, Health and Human Services committee Monday.