Ohio – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has announced a new round of funding aimed at helping local law enforcement agencies across the state strengthen their use of body-worn cameras, a tool that continues to gain importance in promoting accountability and transparency.
In the fourth round of the Ohio Body-Worn Camera Grant Program, the Ohio Department of Public Safety’s Office of Criminal Justice Services (OCJS) will distribute nearly $4.6 million to 131 law enforcement agencies. This funding will cover both the purchase of new camera equipment and other related expenses such as data storage and personnel for managing footage.
Supporting Both New and Existing Camera Programs
The funding will help 21 law enforcement agencies create new body-worn camera programs, while 110 agencies will use their awards to expand or upgrade their existing camera technology.
“Body-worn cameras have become an essential tool in law enforcement, and I’m pleased that we can help more local agencies equip their officers with them,” said Governor DeWine. “There has been high demand for this funding, and my executive budget proposes to continue this grant program in the next biennium.”
The OCJS received $14.4 million in requests during this latest round. All qualifying agencies that applied to establish new programs were prioritized for funding. The remaining grant dollars were allocated to help existing programs with upgrades, expanded data storage, and the hiring of record-retention personnel.
Agencies Starting New Programs Across Ohio
Among the 21 agencies launching new body-worn camera programs are:
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Village of Elida Police Department (Allen County)
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Ross Township Police Department and Trenton Police Department (Butler County)
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Felicity Police Department (Clermont County)
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Blanchester Police Department (Clinton County)
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Bentleyville Police Department (Cuyahoga County)
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Defiance County Sheriff’s Office (Defiance County)
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Village of Ashley Police Department (Delaware County)
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Gallia County Sheriff’s Office (Gallia County)
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Elmwood Place, Greenhills, and Eastlake Police Departments (Hamilton and Lake Counties)
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Youngstown State University Police and Village of New Middletown Police (Mahoning County)
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Roseville Police Department (Muskingum County)
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Gratis Police Department (Preble County)
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Macedonia Police Department (Summit County)
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Warren Township Police Department (Trumbull County)
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Dover Police Department (Tuscarawas County)
Continued Statewide Commitment
The Ohio Body-Worn Camera Grant Program was established by Governor DeWine in 2021. Since its creation, the initiative has awarded funding to over 400 law enforcement agencies. The program is designed to enhance community trust while providing essential tools for modern policing.
As demand for body-worn camera programs continues to grow, the governor’s proposed budget includes plans to extend funding into the next biennium, ensuring more departments can adopt or improve their camera systems. Through this program, Ohio remains committed to supporting law enforcement while promoting transparency and public safety.
