AI Body cameras could bring language translation and real-time streaming to Norwich officers. (Photo by Shawn Magrath)

NORWICH – The Norwich Police Department is chasing a state-sponsored grant that will fund artificial intelligence body cameras for its patrol officers.

Police Chief Matthew Roberts says the department has applied for a $692,000 grant for Axon Body 4 cameras, which he says will enhance public safety while also helping the department run more efficiently.

Axon is a leading American public safety technology company specializing in hardware, software, and AI-powered public safety tools.

The grant, Roberts explained at a meeting of the Norwich Joint Committee earlier this month, will cover the expense of hardware and supporting software to run the AI-powered cameras, which will provide his department with benefits including visual recordings, language translation, and better field communications with off-site officers.