NORWICH – The Norwich Police Department was approved to upgrade their security camera and recording system at the city common council meeting on Monday night.

According to Police Chief Rodney Marsh, the current system has several issues. The audio of the camera in the interview room is distorted when the air vent is running. There are blind spots that cameras aren't reaching. The digital video recorder (DVR) is 13 years old, and requires the aid of a paperclip to get recordings to eject. Also some of the cameras are outdated, seeing as they were installed to the building when it was built in 2000.

The current system is also at capacity with the number of cameras it can handle. It currently has four exterior cameras and eight interior cameras. Chief Marsh was hoping to upgrade just the essential cameras with issues and DVR system with funds left over from the 2019 budget.

“We'll replace what we really need in here then I was planning on budgeting every year to [replace] another camera or add another camera.” said Chief Marsh. “I do have money left over from the 2019 budget to cover the cost.”

Assistant Chief Scott Burlison stated they do not yet have an exact figure for the cost of the upgrade. “We are still working with the vendor and should have an exact figure by the end of the week,” said Burlison.

After considering the proposal, Alderman Matthew Caldwell inquired about the replacement of the entire system.

“Does it make more sense to replace the entire system that we know is compatible with its self. Because in three or four years we say ok its time to replace another camera but technologies changed in such a way that were back to replacing the entire system anyway. So does it make more sense to replace the entire system?” asked Caldwell.

Chief Marsh stated that they do have enough over funds left over from the 2019 budget to replace the entire system.

Alderman Caldwell then stated, “We are experiencing some unruly citizens out there and we may want to have good evidence for the D.A. I'll make a motion to pass.” Alderman Doliver seconded the motion, and it was passed unanimously by the council.

Alderman Caldwell then commended Chief Marsh and officers for their execution of the high speed chase that happened on Friday, January 3rd. Chief Marsh stated that they have had more failures to comply with traffic stops in the past year then in his 27 years of service.

Alderman Jeffery inquired about the polices use of road spikes. Chief Marsh said that they currently do not have road spikes but it was something he was considering putting money aside for in 2020. Alderman Jeffery stated that with the increase of failures to comply he wanted to move that the council approve the purchase of road spikes right away. The council passed the motion with all members in agreeance.