FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 7, 2025
MEDIA CONTACT:
Sgt. Fernando Bosch
(305) 668-2488
Fbosch@southmiamipdfl.gov
South Miami Police Department Elevates Transparency and Community Engagement with New Body-Worn Camera Technology
South Miami, FL – In a step toward deepening community trust and transparency, the South Miami Police Department (SMPD) has expanded its partnership with Axon, rolling out the latest advancements in body-worn camera and public safety technology.
At the core of this rollout is the Axon Body 4, the newest and most advanced body-worn camera available. Every member of the department, including the Chief, Command Staff, Detectives, and Patrol Officers, will now be equipped with these devices, reinforcing a department-wide commitment to accountability and transparency.
One of the most transformative features of Axon Body 4 is the integrated real-time oversight capability, powered by the “Watch Me” function and Axon Respond Plus. This system allows officers in the field to request immediate support from supervisors by activating their camera as a visual beacon. Once activated, supervisors receive real-time alerts and can:
- Live-stream video directly from the officer’s body-worn camera,
- Track the real-time GPS location of the incident,
- Communicate directly with the responding officer and/or involved individuals, and
- Deploy resources or provide guidance as the situation develops.
This level of oversight not only enhances officer safety and situational awareness but also provides greater transparency and ensures that incidents with potential public impact receive immediate supervisory attention.
“Our officers are never alone,” said Chief Reo Hatfield III. “With this technology, our supervisors can see, hear, and respond in real time—supporting accountability, officer wellness, and better outcomes for the public.”
Under the updated body-worn camera policy, cameras are placed in standby mode as soon as officers leave the station, activating a video-only pre-event buffer. Officers are required to begin recording as soon as they’re dispatched to a call, ensuring every response is captured from start to finish.
To further support accurate and unbiased documentation, the department has acquired Axon Signal Sidearm (SSA) and Signal Device Integration. These systems automatically trigger nearby body-worn cameras within approximately 35 feet via Bluetooth to record when an officer unholsters a firearm or deploys a Taser, creating synchronized recordings of critical moments.
Empowering the Community Through My90
As a cornerstone of this technology expansion, SMPD is also proud to introduce Axon’s My90—a community engagement tool that allows residents to share anonymous feedback after police interactions. Residents who’ve had an encounter with an officer will receive a brief survey via text message, allowing them to share their experiences, concerns, and safety priorities—completely confidential and without collecting personal data.
Survey data will be reviewed regularly to identify strengths, areas for improvement, and inform both training and policy decisions. The department encourages residents to participate and help shape the future of public safety in South Miami.
Innovative Evidence Collection and Case Management
With the addition of Axon Capture, officers can now securely collect video, audio, and photographic evidence in the field using department-issued mobile devices. All data is automatically uploaded to Axon Evidence.com, a secure, cloud-based system that supports case building while maintaining a clear and accountable chain of custody.
Chief Hatfield emphasized, “Our investment in this technology is an investment in our community. By embracing tools that promote oversight, enhance safety, and elevate the voices of our residents, the South Miami Police Department is reaffirming its mission to protect and serve with integrity, openness, and respect.”
For more information, please contact the South Miami Police Department at 305-663-6301 or visit our website at https://www.southmiamifl.gov/184/Police-Department.
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