(KAIR)--New dash cams, utilizing the latest technology, is approved for purchase for use by the Atchison Police Department.

That follows action of the Atchison City Commission during their meeting Monday afternoon. "We're asking you for seven units," Atchison Police Chief Mike Wilson told the Commission, as he outlined the reasons behind the more than $33,000 request. "We think the cost is right...the need is there. We have seven patrol cars, we don't put them in our unmarked cars."

Citing the value of the cameras in legal proceedings, Wilson, during his presentation, also cited their use in settling citizen complaints. "I found that out in early 2000, that's when we got our first unites. [The video from the cameras] eliminated completely, to zero, the number of complaints that we have."

Wilson explained that the request to replace the current dash cams means upgraded technology for his department. "What we've also asked you for here is a panoramic camera, it's kind of a new theory. The panoramic camera, which is $200 more, it's a third camera that's in there, and it goes from side to side, so if somebody's at the left fender, or the right fender, almost to the doors, it's going to [record] that, too."

Following Wilson's presentation, and brief discussion, the Commission approved the purchase of the seven new cameras unanimously.