Body Worn Cameras

Program Background

The Holmdel Township Police Department strives to be at the forefront in all aspects of law enforcement, specifically in the areas of transparency and community outreach. The Department has demonstrated this commitment through the implementation of a Mobile Video Recorder (MVR) program, also known as vehicle dash-cams, which we implemented in the early 2000’s. Now, the Department will further enhance transparency and community outreach by implementing a Body Worn Camera (BWC) Program.

In 2016, the Chief appointed a Research & Development Committee. The committee field-tested BWC systems from four manufacturers that included five different models. That same committee created a policy, with guidance from the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office and the NJ State Attorney General’s Office. Our Officers provided feedback to the committee throughout this process. The committee concluded its research and recommended a solution that best fits our needs.

Due to our work, we applied for and received a matching grant from the US Department of Justice in the amount of $64,000 toward the purchase of a BWC system.

Based on available data and current national trends, we expect to see positive results from investing in a BWC program. Such as increased transparency and accountability to the public, an increase in criminal convictions, decrease in complaints against Officers, enhanced Department training opportunities, and more.

Program Implementation

The Department fulfilled the grant requirements and purchased the Axon Body Worn Camera system in April of 2021. The deployment of our Body Worn Camera system is the culmination of the Department's ongoing efforts to enhance our transparency with the public and our law enforcement capabilities. The Department will deploy the system on the morning of Saturday, May 29th, 2021. 

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Information for the Public

For questions and information regarding the Department Body Worn Camera Program email us at bwc@holmdelpolice.org.

What you can expect regarding video recordings:
  • Officers are required to alert the public that they are being recorded, in situations when it is safe and reasonable to do so.
  • In locations where individuals have a reasonable expectation of privacy, such as a home, individuals may request that an Officer not record them. Officers will evaluate each situation and honor the request if appropriate.

Video Retention

The department policy specifies:
  • Video retention schedules are set by New Jersey law.
  • All video must be retained for at least 180 days. However, that period may be longer depending on the type of incident, and criminal proceeding.