Law enforcement agencies will test cameras that mount on handguns

Called PistolCams, the cameras will be mounted on handguns of the Newburgh (N.Y.) Police Department, New York State Police and officers with the Orange County Sheriff’s SWAT team in New York.

Made by Legend Technologies of Keeseville, N.Y., PistolCam is said to be the first digital video recording device with full sound capabilities to automatically document activity after a handgun is released from a police officer’s holster. The specially designed holster uses magnetic strip technology to activate the camera as the officer removes the gun.

PistolCam captures up to 60 minutes of MPEG 4 digital video and audio in a compact, 6-oz. device. When memory nears capacity, the device automatically switches to an Auto Stills mode that captures digital photos upon shot recoil. Options include laser sighting and a tactical flashlight.

The camera is designed to be a training tool for police officers, as well as to provide evidence when an officer-involved shooting occurs. Video and images captured by the cameras are encrypted to prevent alteration or erasing of footage.

City of Newburgh Police Chief Eric Paolilli was quoted as saying: “We are excited about having the opportunity to pilot PistolCam as we believe it is a cutting-edge technology that will enhance police officer training, and it will enable us to better our cooperation and interaction with the City of Newburgh community.”

Besides spearheading the pilot testing in New York, the company plans to market PistolCams to Texas law enforcement agencies within the next month.

For more information about PistolCams, visit http://www.pistolcam.com/.