The Lawrenceville City Council voted unanimously Monday to outfit Lawrenceville police officers with body-worn cameras. The department will use $161,297 in asset forfeiture funds to acquire 75 body cameras, nine in-car cameras and warranty packages that will supply each on-duty officer with the necessary equipment.

“It is important to us that our Lawrenceville Police Department is equipped with the appropriate technology to effectively protect and serve our community,” said Chuck Warbington, city manager. “We are eager to repurpose these seized funds for the benefit of our businesses, residents and visitors alike.”

Body-worn cameras are used to preserve evidence and provide an accurate account of activity for on-duty officers. Lawreneville’s purchase of Watch Guard Body cameras will come with the capability to record-after-the-fact, giving police the ability to retrieve video not previously recorded as an event.

“The Lawrenceville Police Department already maintains a high level of accountability with its officers. Having a video record of events while on-duty will support our regular routine and ability to serve the community,” said Chief Randy Johnson.

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In 2022, Georgia Power projected its winter peak electricity demand would grow by about 400 megawatts by 2031. Since then, Georgia has experienced a boom of data centers, which require a large load of electricty to run, and Georgia Power's recent forecast shows peak demand growing by 20 times the 400-megawatt estimate from just three years ago. (Illustration by Philip Robibero/AJC)

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