The Madison Police Department is hosting a series of roundtable discussions to talk about the impact that body-worn cameras have on policing.

On Thursday, members of the public and city leaders are invited to participate in the “Share the Table” program.

The program is designed to build mutual understanding about the use of technology in law enforcement. Guests will look at case studies and research, participate in hands-on activities and engage in honest and facilitated discussions about body-worn cameras.

Patrol officers and department leadership will also participate. They’ll share how these cameras will directly impact their work and answer any questions participants may have about this technology.

Body-worn cameras hold officers accountable for wrongdoings and could save a lot of time during investigations. The Madison Police Department has wanted to start a body-worn camera pilot program in the city for years. The one-year pilot program calls for 48 body cameras for officers in the city’s North District. The Madison Common Council approved $83,000 in its 2021 capital budget, but city leaders have yet to approve the program.

Here are the details for Thursday’s event:

Share the Table – Conversations with MPD about Body-Worn Cameras
Feb. 10
Memorial Union
6:30-9 p.m.
Sign up: surveys.axon.com/s3/MPDST

Participants will need to check in with the information desk at Memorial Terrace for a room number. Pizza will also be provided to guests at this seminar.

The Madison Police Department has canceled the virtual "Share the Table seminar scheduled for Feb. 17.

Community members can also attend a virtual seminar on Feb. 24 about body-worn cameras.  During this discussion, Panasonic will share how body-worn technology helps with community policing.

Here are the details for these events:

Panasonic on Body-Worn Cameras
Feb. 24
6:30 - 8 p.m.
Register at this link

The March 3 event has been canceled. 

Registered guests will be sent a Zoom link at a later date. 

Axon and Panasonic are considered experts in body-worn technology.