Currently, the Portsmouth Police Department (NH) does not require its officers to use body-worn cameras. Body-worn cameras are essential in ensuring professionalism, accountability, and transparency from police officers. Research has proven that police officers, prosecutors, and community members have all benefitted greatly from the implementation of these devices. As a result, the majority of police departments across the country have enacted new policy and are requiring use of body-worn camera technologies in recent years. Recently, countless neighboring departments right here in the state of New Hampshire have followed suit. For the safety of our community and all of its members, it is time for the Portsmouth Police Department in Portsmouth, NH to do the same.

All those who have signed this petition are calling on the support of Portsmouth Police Chief, Robert Merner, Portsmouth Mayor, Rick Becksted, and all members of the Portsmouth Police Commission (Joe Onosko, Thomas Hart, and Stefany Shaheen) to legislate and enforce new policy mandating that all officers in the Portsmouth Police Department must use body-worn cameras while on duty and during all interactions. We are also calling for appropriate legislation to govern the timely purchase, distribution, and oversight of these devices.

The Portsmouth Police Commission rejected a body-cam proposal as recently as September 2019.  Police Commissioner Joe Onosko stated that not enough complaints were coming in and that “For us to spend to put body cameras on our officers when we don’t have a problem, it would be a complete waste of money.” Police Commissioner Stefany Shaheen stated that it was not a priority compared to other department needs. This decision and response is unacceptable, especially coming from a civilian oversight group whose top responsibilities are "to ensure: 1.) The safety and security of the citizens and guests of Portsmouth; 2.)The Police Department operates in an ethical manner."

Portsmouth, NH is a city that prides itself on being a safe and welcoming community and a leader in the Seacoast area. In order to uphold that reputation and to ensure safety for all of our community members, including police officers, citizens, guests, and victims of crime, the least we can do is to take action and demand this simple change in how we can more effectively police our community. It is time for the citizens of Portsmouth to have their voices heard now, so that we don't have to wait for a tragedy or an alarming rise in police conduct complaints before deeming legislation necessary. A police department that is well trained with professional and ethically acting officers should have no resistance towards adopting body-worn cameras, as they will ensure proper conduct, provide safety for both civilians and police, and will be invaluable towards providing justice in many court cases. In a predominantly white, racially homogenous community, it is also critical to acknowledge how requiring body-cameras creates a more welcoming and trusting environment for those different races, ethnicities, and cultures. While we are privileged and blessed enough to live in a relatively peaceful city, it is important to ensure there will always be accountability should an unforeseen event occur. It is as important to demand accountability and justice from those who are paid to protect and serve the people here in Portsmouth, NH, as it is everywhere. Thank you for your support.

This petition is inspired by the memory of George Floyd and all others who have died at the hands of police brutality.