Detroit police gets $2.8 million grant for body cams, new officers

DETROIT (WJBK) - The Department of Justice is handing over nearly $3 million to the Detroit Police Department to make improvements.

The police department is getting $1 million to equip their officers with body cams, and another $1.8 million to hire 15 new officers.

Officials with the DOJ have not said when the money will be given to Detroit Police or how the the $1.8 million will be spent to hire the officers.

Detroit Police Chief James Craig says the grant money is a win-win for his department.

"Anytime we have a video of an incident that can refute any false allegations or support, it enhances transparency," Craig said.

Craig says his department will need to receive training regarding the cameras before they're put into use but he believes the body cameras will provide transparency about police work and investigations.