HOPKINSVILLE, KY – June 9, 2021
The Christian County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) has completed the deployment of body-worn cameras on its patrol deputies. “The goals of our body-worn camera program include enhancing services and providing transparency with respect to interactions between our deputies and the community,” said Sheriff Tyler DeArmond. He added, “We are always looking for better ways to serve the citizens of Christian County and this is just one more example of our efforts in that regard.”
CCSO evaluated numerous body camera alternatives before deciding on the Visual Labs smartphone-based solution, which leverages Android smartphones as an all-in-one device, as opposed to using vendor-specific hardware. The body-worn cameras used by CCSO are actually fully-functioning Android smartphones, the Kyocera DuraForce PRO 2, a waterproof, dustproof “rugged” device. Each smartphone is connected to FirstNet built with AT&T along with an application installed from Visual Labs, a Silicon Valley software company.
In addition to adding the functionality of a body-worn camera, the Visual Labs application allows the device to function as a digital camera, an audio recorder, and a personnel locator, all while retaining the functionality of the smartphone itself. “It is a great way to put more functionality in the hands of our deputies without adding multiple pieces of hardware,” said Sheriff DeArmond.
One of the features that increase operational efficiency is the ability for automatic upload. Once a body camera recording is completed, the footage is automatically uploaded to a secure, CJIS-compliant cloud storage solution. This eliminates the need for docking stations, routers, or any additional hardware or wiring. “Implementation was a breeze,” said Sheriff DeArmond. “We provided each deputy with a smartphone, gave them some training, and sent them into the field.” He added, “The deployment could not have been any easier.”
The Visual Labs smartphone body-worn camera solution includes several deputy-safety features such as the ability to live-stream video and audio directly from the scene of a critical incident. This enables CCSO command staff to obtain real-time situational awareness and make tactical decisions even when they are not present at the scene. This feature is available directly from the smartphone without the need to connect to any additional hardware. “Our primary goal is to serve the citizens of our community, and if we can do that with an efficient and cost-effective solution, even better,” said Sheriff DeArmond. He added, “As the years progress, we plan to take advantage of new smartphone capabilities and leverage Visual Labs’ continued software enhancements to keep CCSO at the forefront of technology.”
“We are extremely pleased that the Christian County Sheriff’s Office has selected the Visual Labs smartphone body camera solution,” said Alexander Popof, COO of Visual Labs. “Christian County Sheriff’s Office has always focused on better ways to serve its community, and we are glad to be part of that effort with our high-technology solution.”
ABOUT THE CHRISTIAN COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
The Christian County Sheriff’s Office is a full-service, 24/7 department that responds and investigates anything from accidents and simple assaults to homicides. Its jurisdiction covers an area of 724 square miles, which includes the towns of Pembroke, Fairview, Lacy, Crofton, Gracey, and others. The department is tasked with the additional responsibility of handling the payment of all property taxes for Christian County, as well as the execution of criminal and civil service.
(https://www.christiancountyso.com/)
Contact: Sheriff Tyler DeArmond; admin@christiancountyso.com; 270-887-4141
ABOUT VISUAL LABS
Visual Labs, Inc. is a Menlo Park, California based software company that has developed software for Android smartphones and a web-based evidence management platform to provide a CJIS-compliant body and dash camera solutions. The Visual Labs solutions are used by law enforcement, private security and other customers all across the United States and internationally.
(https://www.visuallabsinc.com/)
Contact: Alexander Popof; alp@visuallabsinc.com; 818-919-9802
