Agency Tahoes Receive new Axon In-car Camera System

September 28, 2021

Agency Tahoes Receive new

Axon In-car Camera System

Since March 2021, deputies have been trained and outfitted with body-worn cameras. While implementation of the program has been successful, the overall effort to enhance the Pinellas County Sheriff Office’s (PCSO) video capabilities is not complete. The PCSO is currently updating all agency Tahoes with the Axon Fleet 3 System, which interfaces with the Axon body-worn cameras and was included in the initial contract for body-worn cameras.

In coordination with the Fleet Operations Division and the Information Technology Bureau, Axon technicians have been installing the new systems in about six Tahoes per day since August 3rd. Initially, the technicians are retrofitting the older Tahoe models and will begin installations on the brand new 2021 Tahoes as soon as they arrive toward the end of this year.

The Axon Fleet 3 System brings newer video recording technology, such as video formatting and high-definition resolution, into each vehicle. Additionally, with the former COBAN System, deputies needed to physically upload their videos at a fixed location from a hard drive. With the new system, each video is uploaded automatically over an expanded cellular/LTE network. All of the recorded videos from the vehicle and the body-worn cameras are stored together in a secure digital evidence management system.

Instead of reviewing video footage on a monitor in the dash of the Tahoe, deputies will be able to see it from their agency laptops. In the event of a major incident, all of the cameras will begin recording automatically. The automatic triggers include if a gun is un-holstered, a Taser is turned on, or the emergency light bar is activated. Using the multi-cam playback feature, a user can simultaneously watch up to four separate videos of the same incident, each from its own unique perspective.

“I’m excited about the possibilities these new technologies will bring to the street, both from an officer safety standpoint, and as an evidence collection tool,” Lieutenant Bobby Osterland, who is managing the effort, said. “With the addition of the Axon Fleet 3 System to our existing body-worn camera system, the sheriff’s office is maintaining and enhancing its ability to deliver professional law enforcement services to the citizens of Pinellas County.”

Stay tuned to Facebook or Instagram this Saturday at 7:30PM for the latest episode of our video series, "Partners in Crime." The latest installment will take a look at the unique relationship between our Forensic Science Division and Property & Evidence!

Support Explorer Post #900 on Dine-Out Day

Since 1968, Dine-Out Day has given the community an opportunity to support youth programs and enjoy a good meal at participating restaurants in Pinellas County.

Dine-Out Day started during Sheriff Don Genung’s tenure (from 1958 to 1975) as a part of his new community outreach programs and modernization initiatives at the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO). Initially, the funds raised contributed to a multitude of youth programs at the sheriff’s office and in the community.

Then in 1976, the PCSO transitioned the focus of the fundraiser to exclusively support Explorer Post #900, which offers young people the opportunity to gain valuable life experience and learn about a career in law enforcement firsthand.

This year, on October 20th, you can redeem Dine-Out Day Dollars at participating restaurants, and 50 percent of the proceeds will go to the Explorer Post #900. The funding is vital for the explorers since it helps them purchase uniforms, equipment, training, and trips to both local and national competitions throughout the year.

To purchase Dine-Out Day Dollars or to learn more about the Explorer Post #900, visit our website: https://www.pcsoweb.com/Post900

To make a monetary donation, call: (727) 453-7461.

Job Feature: Warehouse Operations Technician

The Warehouse Operations Technician works in the Purchasing Division and assists with warehouse operations, material handling, and inventory administration activities. Responsibilities include receiving materials, inspecting products for defects, and inventory management. To learn more, click here.