SARATOGA SPRINGS— In a release dated Thursday, February 13 the Saratoga Springs Police Department announced that they have begun equipping officers with on-officer video cameras. These cameras are made by Taser International, which is the same company that makes the conducted electrical devices carried by Saratoga Springs Police officers that are commonly known are “Tasers.” The system used by the SSPD is the Axon Flex Camera System. The lightweight cameras are about three inches in length and can be mounted on the shoulder, collar, headgear or glasses worn by an officer. The cameras record both audio and video. The camera is turned on and off by the officer. The SSPD release further noted: “The primary purpose of the camera system is to assist with the documentation of incidents that officers are involved in. The cameras are not intended to replace traditional police reporting or investigative techniques and the need for officer reports, witness statements and physical evidence collection remains (in effect). “Officers wearing an Axon Flex camera are encouraged, but not mandated, to record certain situations such as traffic stops, confrontational situations, suspicious persons and vehicles, among other legitimate law enforcement encounters… restrictions are placed on the recording of activities protected by the First Amendment such as during protests, demonstrations and picketing, unless a violation of the law is occurring.”