Community input is needed by the Hastings Police Department on the use and usefulness of Body Worn Cameras. According to Lee Stoffel, Communications director for the City of Hastings,over the past two years, the Hastings Police Department has successfully navigated through the process of developing and evaluating a body-worn camera pilot program and is preparing to fully implement body-worn cameras into the department with each officer to be provided with the equipment. The MN Legislature passed the Peace Officer Body-Worn Camera Bill on August 1, 2016 which outlines requirements for data classification, retention, audits, public input, and written policy for departments having or intending on implementing body-worn cameras. The Hastings Police Department Mobile Video and Body-Worn Camera policy meets these guidelines and follows the recommended language as set forth by the League of Minnesota Cities Model Policy for Body-Worn Cameras. The updated draft policy will be presented to the Hastings City Council on Monday, December 5, 2016, for final approval.While the program and policy has been reviewed and approved by the Public Safety Advisory Commission, the Safety Committee of Council, and the City Council, HPD is also asking for final public comment on the full integration of this program into the department. Hastings residents are invited to provide comment via email at hpd@hastingsmn.gov, by mail at 101 4th Street East, or by speaking at the City Council meeting at City Hall on Monday, December 5th at 7 p.m. The Draft policy and methods to contact the department are available for review on the City of Hastings website homepage News section at www.hastingsmn.gov. Questions can be directed to HPD Chief Bryan Schafer 651-480-2306.
