Body Worn Cameras

In order to fulfill the the New Jersey Legislature's body worn camera mandate, the South River Police Department will be utilizing Axon 3 body worn cameras. Beginning September 13th, 2021, all uniformed patrol officers will be equipped with the body worn cameras.

The deployment of our body worn camera system is the culmination of the South River Police Department's ongoing effort to increase accountability and transparency with the public, while providing protection for officers who engage with the public on a daily basis. The public can expect the cameras are recording interactions when officers are in the performance of their official duties.

The body worn cameras will be used in accordance with the guidelines and policies established by the New Jersey Attorney General and the Middlesex County Prosecutor's Office. Click here for the New Jersey Attorney General's Body Worn Camera Policy.

 What can you expect regarding body worn camera recordings?

• Body worn cameras will be worn by all uniformed patrol officers assigned to the patrol division while they are performing patrol-related duties.

• In situations when it is safe and reasonable to do so, officers are required to alert the public that they are being recorded.

• In locations where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as a home, individuals may request that an officer not record them. Officers will evaluate each situation and honor the request, if appropriate.  

What is the video retention policy?

• Video retention schedules are set by New Jersey Law.

• All video must be retained for at least 180 days. 

• In the case of certain incident types and criminal proceedings, the retention period may be longer than the 180 day minimum.

Where will the body worn cameras be located and what will they look like?

The body worn camera will be positioned on the outer layer of the officer's uniform and placed within the upper torso/chest area, ensuring the recording capability is not obstructed. The photos below show the current body worn camera utilized by the South River Police Department and an example of where it may be placed on an officer’s uniform.