HARTFORD – U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (D-3) and Congressman Jim Himes (D-4) announced today two federal grants from the U.S. Department of Justice for New Haven and Stamford to purchase police body cameras. New Haven received $90,000 and Stamford received $600,000.  

“I’m thrilled to see these grants go to support a very smart criminal justice initiative,” said Murphy. “The use of body cameras is a trust builder for police - this technology has the dual benefit of protecting both the officer and the citizen. Thanks to the Department of Justice’s continued support, Stamford and New Haven police officers will now be better able to serve Connecticut’s residents.”

“Body cameras are one valuable tool to improve relationships between law enforcement and the communities they police—protecting both officers and the public. No technology can replace the crucial role of community policing in building and fostering mutual trust and respect between law enforcement and the public, but body cameras can be an effective and positive tool to support that fundamental work. I will continue to do everything I can do provide our police officers with the tools, technology and resources they need to do their jobs safely and effectively,” Blumenthal said. 

“These new body cameras, and the information gathered from them, will help the New Haven Police Department put together even smarter and more effective policing models than they already have in place. Trust between a police force and the community it serves is critical to keeping all our residents safe. I applaud the NHPD for winning these federal funds and look forward to seeing the results of this investment,” said DeLauro.

“In these tight budgetary times, we need to put in extra effort get our law enforcement officers the support and resources they need to do their jobs effectively,” said Himes. “By providing funds to assist with the purchase of body cameras in Stamford, the federal government has helped increase the safety of our officers and improve accountability. My office will continue to work closely with Mayor Martin in the future to make sure that our first responders are in the best possible position to serve the community.”