NYE COUNTY (KTNV) — Police cameras are now standard as law enforcement agencies continue to seek greater transparency.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department and Nye County Sheriff's Office were the first in Nevada to test a camera-mounted weapon built from Viridian Weapon Technologies.
The two departments joined the nearly 400 other U.S. law enforcement agencies testing this new technology.
The new weapons operate and look like any other Glock gun, but it gives officers a unique perspective.
“When you pull the gun out it automatically activates the camera. The officer doesn't have to turn on the camera. When it goes back into the holster that camera deactivates," said Deputy Boruchowitz.
It has a camera and requires zero training.
"In a critical situation where you're pulling your gun the last thing you want to be thinking is, 'Oh how do I turn on the camera on?'" said Deputy Boruchowitz.
The mounted-weapon camera provides an unobstructed view from the end of the firearm.
It also works as a tactical flashlight.
Sheriff Sharon Wehrly believes it will also give a clear picture during a shooting investigation when one might invovle an officer.
"This technology is going to show you where the firearm is pointing," said Sheriff Wehrly.
The gun-mounted cameras are expected to be used alongside body cameras and dashboard cameras.
"It'll make law enforcement more transparent for people," said Sheriff Wehrly.
Authorities in Nye County said they will test the product for three months before making a final decision.
