AUGUSTA COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) — The Augusta County Sheriff’s Office is now full implementing the Body Worn Camera Project. Beginning April 1, 2025, members of the community will begin seeing deputies equipped with body worn cameras during their daily duties.

“This milestone marks the culmination of a multi-year effort aimed at enhancing transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency within the Sheriff’s Office. The project’s success reflects the strong collaboration between County departments and leadership, as well as the continued support from our community,” said Sheriff Donald L. Smith.

Project Timeline and Milestones

· July 2024: Project approval and coordination with IT and Maintenance to determine strategic camera placement.

· August 2024: IT conducted technical research and drafted the infrastructure layout. Maintenance planned and bid a new generator-powered electrical panel.

· September 2024: Installation of the new power panel and infrastructure completed.

· October 2024: Body and fleet cameras were purchased from Axon, the selected vendor.

· November 2024: IT installed docking station cabling and upgraded internet to Glo Fiber Enterprise.

· January 2025: All equipment and infrastructure components delivered.

· March 5, 2025: Axon led a “train-the-trainer” session for key Sheriff’s Office personnel.

· Ongoing: Infrastructure setup continues to support full deployment, including chargers and docking stations.

Future Plans

Dash cameras (fleet cameras) will be implemented within the next several weeks as the final phase of the project is near completion.