GNS reporter Dan Osburn reports that a New York City senator plans to introduce legislation for city police to use high-tech device that will record what happens when a firearm is used. Here are details on what he learned today.

   Sen. Eric Adams, D-Brooklyn, demonstrated a new device called the PistolCam in the Capitol today – a 5-ounce camera he said would provide “a clearer picture of what officers encounter after they remove their guns from their holster.” 
   The camera would be used to clarify the sequence of events in a police-related shooting should the case go to court, Adams said. He wants New York City police to give the PistolCam a trial run but said he hopes other law-enforcers will make use of it as well. The attachment—which retails for $695—can fit on most common police-issue weapons, he said.
   The camera is also outfitted with a laser targeting system and flashlight that turn on automatically, along with the camera, 1.4 seconds after the weapon is drawn from its holster, said Bill DeProspo of manufacturer Legend Technologies in Keeseville, in the Adirondack Park region. The light and laser can be turned off for tactical purposes, but the camera is always rolling to preserve evidence during a shooting, he said. 
   The data on the PistolCam, which can be uploaded to any computer or laptop, is encrypted and password protected so not even a police officer using the firearm can alter the data, DeProspo said.
   “This technology is new, it’s cutting edge, no other state has it,” Adams said. “It’s a great opportunity for some very clear answers after a police-related shooting.”
   New York State Police Benevolent Association President Daniel De Federicis released a statement that the union would be weighing the benefits of the cameras.
   “We will examine this issue, keeping in mind that our primary concern is the safety of our Troopers,” he said in a statement. “We will examine whether mounting any piece of equipment on Troopers’ handguns would add bulk or weight to them, or whether doing so would affect the functionality of the firearms.”
   “In general, we would be staunchly opposed to any equipment that would hinder our members’ abilities to protect themselves or the public they are sworn to serve,” he said.
   Adams said that the 5 ounces the camera adds to the weapon actually reduces the recoil of the firearm and makes the weapon more accurate.