The 2024 Dane County budget included funds for the Dane County Board of Supervisors to conduct a strategic community engagement process regarding the use of body worn cameras by the Dane County Sheriff’s Office. In November of 2024, an outside agency (the nINA Collective) facilitated in-person focus groups with members of the public to discuss the implementation of body worn cameras. 

Participants expressed support for the cameras, citing safety and accountability benefits. 

Concerns included privacy, officer discretion in turning off cameras, and the potential for misuse. 

Suggestions included clear communication about camera activation, public access to footage, and using cameras for performance evaluations. The groups emphasized the need for transparency and clear policies on when and how footage is accessed and stored. They also highlighted the importance of community education on their rights regarding body-worn cameras and the potential impact on officer behavior and community trust.

Please see below for the Summary Report and Recommendations that have been provided by the nINA Collective.