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Lakeland commissioners approve body-worn cameras for officers

The city will spend $9.3 million on body cameras and other technology upgrades for police.

LAKELAND, Fla. — Lakeland city commissioners on Monday approved the purchase of body-worn cameras and other technological upgrades for police officers. 

It's a decision that's been in the making for more than a year. The Lakeland City Commission started more seriously exploring the idea of investing in body cameras following the death of George Floyd and after hearing requests from the community. 

In a 7-0 vote, commissioners agreed the city would pay $9.3 million over 10 years for 250 cameras as well as other pieces of equipment. That would amount to $938,000 a year, according to commissioners. 

The decade-long contract is with Axon Enterprises, and it includes much more than cameras. 

The Lakeland Police Department will also receive 250 tasers, 165 in-car camera systems, 10 virtual reality training headsets and three interview room camera systems.

According to a memorandum from the city attorney's office to the Lakeland mayor and city commission, the body-worn cameras will be synced with the tasers. 

You can watch the full commissioners meeting here:

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