LOS ANGELES — In a major step toward improving safety, accountability, and transparency inside Los Angeles County jails, Sheriff Robert G. Luna announced the official rollout of Body-Worn Cameras (BWC) in the Custody Division — marking the first time the technology has been deployed within the nation’s largest jail system.
“As the nation’s largest jail system, we must continue to lead with innovation and accountability,” Sheriff Luna said during a press conference. “This advancement marks a significant step forward in protecting both our workforce and those in our custody.”
Deployment Underway Across County Jail Facilities
The first cameras went live on October 1, 2025, at Men’s Central Jail, the Twin Towers Correctional Facility, the Inmate Reception Center, and the Century Regional Detention Facility. More than 1,000 personnel have been trained so far, with 70 to 100 additional custody employees being trained and equipped each week.
According to LASD, the Department currently has:
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1,235 BWC in Custody
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4,212 BWC in Patrol and Specialized Units
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5,447 BWC deployed Department-wide
The one-time startup cost of the BWC program totaled $13.46 million, with ongoing annual expenses estimated at $26 million. Sheriff Luna thanked the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors for approving the funding needed to implement the technology.
Early Results Show Reduced Violence and Stronger Oversight
LASD reports that overall use-of-force incidents in custody are down more than 22% year-to-date, even before full implementation. The Department says reduced force incidents increase safety for custody deputies and medical staff working inside the facilities.
Body-Worn Cameras also create reliable documentation that supports compliance with court-mandated settlement agreements and strengthens case review by adding additional layers of oversight.
When combined with existing CCTV systems, BWCs provide a comprehensive view of jail incidents. CCTV typically records from elevated fixed positions, while BWCs capture events from the deputy’s perspective and include audio — offering critical context traditional cameras miss.
Next Phase: Broader Expansion, New Taser Technology
The next phase of deployment will extend cameras to the Pitchess Detention Center, the Los Angeles County General Medical Center jail ward, and all custody support units. Construction and infrastructure upgrades are currently underway and are expected to be completed by mid-2026.
The BWC initiative has also enabled LASD to introduce the new Taser 10 inside jail facilities, including:
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40 units at Men’s Central Jail
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10 units at the Inmate Reception Center
The Taser 10 emits a loud audible warning when the safety is disengaged. In the first month of deployment, the warning alone successfully prevented three out of five potential force incidents. The device also automatically activates a deputy’s BWC when unholstered.
Technology Modernization Continues: Tablets, Communication Upgrades, New Buses
LASD is pursuing additional modernization initiatives, including:
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Individual tablet access for inmates to conduct video visitation, access educational content, send electronic messages, and view programming.
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A new Inmate Communication System contract expected to go before the Board of Supervisors in the first quarter of 2026.
The Department is simultaneously upgrading its aging inmate transportation fleet. LASD transported an average of 2,000 inmates per day in 2024. To improve safety and logistics:
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20 new buses were launched in December 2024
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14 more were requested this fiscal year (8 already delivered and outfitted)
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Pending approval of 17 additional buses will bring the projected total to 51 new buses by Fall 2026
Committed to Reform and Accountability
Sheriff Luna said LASD will continue to seek the best available tools to support personnel, improve operational efficiency, and ensure the safety and well-being of those in custody.
