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In-Car Cameras at the Santa Ana Police Department <br /> February 3, 2026 <br /> Page 4 <br /> Recommended Next Steps <br /> Prior to implementation, SAPD should conduct a thorough field test of the Axon Fleet 3 <br /> system to validate equipment compatibility concerns and identify operational <br /> considerations. After testing, the following steps are recommended: <br /> 1. Identify funding to cover the cost of adding in-car cameras to the SAPD fleet. <br /> 2. Negotiate or amend the existing Axon contract to include Fleet 3 in-car camera <br /> systems. <br /> 3. Update the existing BWC policy to include in-car camera usage, or develop a <br /> standalone in-car camera policy. <br /> 4. Coordinate phased installation across the fleet to minimize operational <br /> disruptions. <br /> 5. Provide training to officers on system functionality, policy requirements, and <br /> synchronization between BWCs and in-car systems. <br /> 6. Deploy the systems department-wide upon completion of installation and training. <br /> Pros and cons of in-car cameras: <br /> Pros: <br /> 1. Enhanced Transparency and Accountability <br /> In-car cameras provide an additional, fixed perspective during vehicle stops, <br /> pursuits, prisoner transports, critical incidents, and officer-involved collisions. <br /> This strengthens public trust and supports SAPD's commitment to transparency. <br /> 2. Improved Evidence Collection <br /> High-quality video and audio captured inside and outside the patrol vehicle can <br /> strengthen criminal cases involving DUI enforcement, traffic violations, use-of- <br /> force incidents, and suspect statements. <br /> 3. Complement to Body-Worn Cameras <br /> In-car cameras capture angles and interactions that BWCs may miss due to <br /> movement, obstruction, or officer positioning. When combined, the two systems <br /> may create a more complete evidentiary record. <br /> 4. Officer Safety and Training Value <br /> Footage from vehicle interiors and fronts can be used for after-action review, <br /> training, coaching, and analysis of pursuit tactics, high-risk stops, and officer- <br /> safety decisions. <br /> 5. Alignment with Regional and National Standards <br /> Many Orange County agencies and a majority of departments nationwide deploy <br /> in-car systems. <br /> Cons: <br /> 1. Significant Ongoing Financial Cost <br /> In addition to annual BWC expenses, in-car cameras would add approximately <br /> $244,259—$279,194 in recurring annual costs for equipment, storage, and <br /> maintenance. <br />