RECOMMENDATION #11

Develop and implement a method for using actual body camera videos of officer interactions as part of a follow-up training program for identifying hidden biases.

This practice has been in place since January 2018.

Currently, supervisors review a minimum of six random videos of traffic stops for each officer annually, and all use-of-force and pursuit videos are reviewed to check for bias-based police action. In addition, all body camera videos are reviewed for incidents in which a complaint has been filed.

Deficiencies are addressed through both training and disciplinary actions.

Status: Complete

Completed Actions

• The Lewisville Police Department is in the implementation phase of the new contract with Axon that will offer enhancements in tracking use of force and setting the alerts. The new software will allow supervisors to “live stream” incidents that could be confrontational. The Axon Standards module is a comprehensive tool to evaluate use of force incidents that can be provided on the transparency page in real time. An additional module, Signal Sidearm, activates the body-worn camera any time the officer’s service weapon is drawn from the holster. Axon will provide increased accountability as we strive to provide the best service to our community.
• City Council approved Body Worn Camera and Dash Camera enhancements on May 3, 2021. One major enhancement will allow the department to better track when force is used by a police officer, and publish data to the public in different categories (e.g. by race, by force type used, time of day). Another component generates random reviews of digital video from Body Worn and Dash cameras. This component also will send alerts to Administration when “key words” are spoken on video.