Law enforcement agencies around the globe are constantly on the lookout for innovative technology to enhance their operations, protect their officers and ensure public safety. One of the fastest-growing areas is the adoption of body-worn cameras, with Axon's Body 2 among the top choices. In this blog post, we'll dive deep into the costs associated with the Axon Body 2 camera to better help your department make an informed decision.

Introduction: What is the Axon Body 2 Camera?

The Axon Body 2 camera is a body-worn camera specifically designed for law enforcement officers to record interactions with the public. Developed by Axon Enterprise Inc., the Axon Body 2 captures high-quality video and audio, providing valuable evidence collection, promoting transparency, and enhancing the accountability of both officers and the public.

Key features of the Axon Body 2 camera include:

1080p HD video recording with a 142-degree wide-angle lens

Built-in GPS

Pre-event buffer

Infrared for low-light situations

User-friendly interface

Battery life of up to 12 hours

Secure, cloud-based storage using Evidence.com

Cost Breakdown: Purchasing the Axon Body 2 Camera

When evaluating the costs associated with the Axon Body 2 camera, it is important to consider not only the upfront cost of the camera itself but also the necessary accessories, software licenses, and cloud storage fees, as well as ongoing maintenance or support costs. The cost will vary depending on your department's specific needs.

Camera and Accessories

The Axon Body 2 camera is priced at approximately $399 per unit. Additionally, you may require accessories such as mounting solutions (chest mount, shoulder mount, or helmet mount) and charging docks. These are available separately, and their cost will depend on the quantity and type of accessory required.

Software Licenses

To make the most of the Axon Body 2 camera, your department will require a subscription to the Axon Evidence platform (formerly known as Evidence.com). Axon Evidence is a robust cloud-based evidence management system designed to simplify the evidence management process, automating video categorization, and ensuring secure chain-of-custody evidence storage.

Axon offers various pricing options for software licenses, ranging from monthly to multi-year commitments. The pricing may also vary depending on the number of users and features required by your department.

Cloud Storage

Axon Evidence enables secure storage of video and data captured by the Axon Body 2 camera. The platform offers multiple storage plans, depending on your agency's storage needs and retention policies. The cost of these storage plans varies, and customized plans are also available to cater to the unique requirements of your department.

Ongoing Maintenance and Support

Like any piece of technology, body cameras require maintenance and support to ensure optimal performance and an extended lifespan. Axon offers various warranty options, including an extended warranty program known as the Axon Assurance Plan. This plan covers repair or replacement of defective units, software updates, and access to a 24/7 support team.

Grants and Funding to Offset Costs

The costs associated with implementing a body camera program can be significant, particularly for smaller departments or those facing budget constraints. To help offset the costs, numerous federal grants and funding options are available to agencies seeking to implement body-worn camera programs.

Programs such as the Bureau of Justice Assistance's Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program (BWC PIP) and the Department of Justice's Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) often offer grants or funding opportunities. It is important to keep an eye on available funding sources and submit applications in a timely manner, as these grants can be highly competitive.

Evaluating the Axon Body 2 Camera's Cost vs. Value

When considering the cost of the Axon Body 2 camera and associated expenses, it is critical to weigh these costs against the potential benefits they can bring to your department. While the upfront and ongoing costs can be significant, the potential value in terms of increased transparency, improved evidence collection, and enhanced officer and public safety should not be underestimated.

Ultimately, your department must consider its unique needs, budget, and operational requirements to determine whether the Axon Body 2 camera is the right investment. By carefully evaluating all associated costs and weighing them against the benefits, you can make an informed decision that positively impacts your department and the community it serves.