Overview
- The agreement with the Police Patrolman Association won unanimous council approval, and the union publicly endorsed adding body‑worn cameras.
- City officials are seeking grant funding to pay for the equipment, with a six‑month window to purchase and distribute once funds are secured.
- Mayor Melinda Barrett said the cameras are intended to increase transparency and protect officers from false claims.
- The policy follows the July death of Francis Gigliotti during a struggle with seven officers, which was ruled a homicide with no charges filed, and no cameras were in use during the incident.
- An independent review of department leadership is expected to produce findings within weeks, while the Essex County district attorney’s investigation into Gigliotti’s death remains ongoing.