According to WOOD TV 8, Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) Chief David Rahinsky is against police body cameras. In an article that reveals somewhat mixed feelings on the matter, WOOD TV 8 reported:

The chief says he recognizes the advantages of body cameras, but he has concerns about the public’s privacy and community relations.

“I don’t want it to have a dampening effect on relationships that we’ve worked hard to earn,” he said. “I have concerns more that people who have issues in their neighborhood and may want to share those concerns would be reluctant to do so.”

He thinks if people know they are being recorded, they won’t be willing share information needed to solve a case.

He’s also worried about recording children, as well as sexual assault and domestic violence victims.

“I’m not comfortable with officers having the ability to activate those cameras in private residences,” he said.

The chief didn’t rule out getting body cams sometime further down the road, but he said he needs more information about when they’ll be activated, how long the video will be stored and who will be able to view the footage before he reconsiders.