Advocates say the cameras will be a valuable tool for the department. The ability to record audio and video of police encounters with the public, they say, could help guard against officer misconduct and clear cops falsely accused of wrongdoing.
More than $1 million raised through private donations will help pay for the cameras, thus avoiding City Hall budget constraints.
Soboroff called the mayor's plan a "very big deal," saying the LAPD's use of the cameras could set a precedent for law enforcement agencies nationwide.
"There are more and more advantages of having cameras than we've ever thought," Soboroff said. "It's music to the ears of the LAPD and law enforcement and the community."
Twitter: @LAcrimes, @katemather
