Georgia sheriff says lack of dash cams isn't a priority
LAFAYETTE, Ga. (AP) - A Georgia sheriff says dash cameras are too expensive and aren't a priority as traffic enforcement isn't a major focus.
The Chattanooga Times Free Press reports the issue came up during last week's trial of 43-year-old Robert Eric Owenby, who was sentenced to 50 years for shooting at authorities during a traffic stop in November.
Owenby said deputies shot first. Deputies said Owenby shot first. There was no dash camera video.
The county has four patrol cars outfitted with cameras. Walker County Sheriff Steve Wilson says outfitting the remaining 23 cars may cost about $115,000.
Wilson says buying more dash cameras isn't in the budget. The agency had a budget of $8 million last fall, which he says the department used to buy handguns and stun guns and fund salaries.
___
Information from: Chattanooga Times Free Press, http://www.timesfreepress.com