About 35 Pawtucket police officers start wearing wearing body-worn cams

PAWTUCKET, R.I. (WLNE) — About 35 Pawtucket police officers began wearing body-worn cameras on Tuesday.

“I am extremely proud that our department is taking the next step in advancing our public safety department by beginning to implement these cameras,” said Mayor Don Grebien.

Pawtucket police were awarded a $875,000, five-year grant for the program in October of last year from the Rhode Island Attorney General’s Office, Department of Public Safety, and Rhode Island Police Chiefs’ Association.

“Body-worn cameras will not only allow for more transparency and accountability, but it will also protect our officers,” said Grebien.

The mayor’s office said the program is set to be fully implemented by the end of the summer.

Grebien said Pawtucket police are still waiting for the remaining carriers and vests.