The Kitsap County Sheriff’s Office has announced that its Body Worn Camera and In-Car Camera programs will launch in 2023.

The idea has been in development since December 2021 when a work group was established. The program will equip patrol cars and officers with cameras intended to capture footage that can later be used as public record and evidence in criminal cases.

The work group identified vendors for the cameras, as well as costs and jobs needed to implement the program. Officials also worked with city officials to amend public records policy to include the new program.

A KCSO news release also says it is researching a grant through the state Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs that helps law enforcement establish and expand body-worn camera programs. “While any grant award from WASPC would represent less than 1% of the total cost of our program, every dollar helps.”

The initial start date was Jan. 1, but implementation is likely delayed until later in the first quarter of 2023.