Overton Sheriff’s Department Seeking Grant For New Body Cameras

The Overton County Sheriff’s Department will apply for grant funding to purchase new body cameras.

Sheriff John Garrett said if awarded, the new gear will replace aging equipment.

“When those officers are out on patrol or they’re answering calls for service, those body cameras really tell the tale of what actual takes place, which protects out officer and it protects our citizens,” Garrett said.

Garrett said up to $10,000 can be granted with a 50 percent match from the department. Garrett said current policy requires all deputies to wear a body camera while on shift.

“If an officer is out and responding to a call or service, those body cams are required to be used as long as there is a camera that is functional and available to that officer,” Garrett said.

Garrett said the amount of money rewarded will determine how many cameras will be purchased.