Winneshiek County Sheriff's Department is implementing body cameras

Just like the Decorah Police Department and an increasing number of law enforcement agencies around the country, the Winneshiek County Sheriff's Department is beginning the process of implementing body cameras for its sheriffs and deputies.

According to Sheriff Dan Marx, the body cameras arrived Thursday.  He hopes that they will be in operation within a week or two.

Sheriff Marx says that body cameras are becoming an essential tool in modern law enforcement, but reminds citizens that they can't always be used to tell the whole story.

"Like anything else in law enforcement, they are a tool," Marx said. "When used properly, they can benefit citizens, officers and courts; they really benefit the whole system. But, of course, people will often look at them as an end-all solution, and they are not always that."

The funding for the body cams, which come at a price tag of about $500 per unit, partially comes from a $2,000 grant given to the Sheriff's Department by the Depot Outlet. Marx said the grant reflects the nature of the relationship between law enforcement and the community in Winneshiek County.

"We're really thankful for the support that we've gotten from the Depot Outlet, as well as from the County Board of Supervisors," Marx said. "It's obvious that they value public safety."

Marx ultimately hopes that this equipment can help bridge the gap between citizens and law enforcement officers, although noted that that relationship is already strong in this part of the state.

"We feel very supported by the community here," Marx said. "Here in Northeast Iowa, I feel like there is generally overwhelming support for law enforcement."