Brooksville, FL – The Hernando County Sheriff’s Office announced Friday that veteran law enforcement officer Tyler O’Donnell has returned to the agency to serve as its new Body-Worn Camera (BWC) Coordinator, marking a key step as the department prepares to fully implement its long-anticipated body camera program.
According to the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, O’Donnell will begin training deputies in February as the agency rolls out body-worn cameras across patrol operations. The program is designed to enhance transparency, accountability, and public trust while supporting deputies in their daily duties.
O’Donnell began his law enforcement career with HCSO in February 2006, serving as a patrol deputy before taking on specialized assignments including SWAT, Honor Guard, Marine Unit, and Traffic Unit. In 2012, he continued his career with the Tampa Police Department, where he worked in multiple specialized units such as Community-Oriented Policing, Rapid Offender Control, Field Training, and the Tampa Police Motor Unit.
Throughout his career, O’Donnell completed advanced training in interview and interrogation techniques, report writing, public records management, and police motorcycle operations. He is also certified in body-worn camera public records compliance, experience that directly supports his new leadership role.
In his position as BWC Coordinator, O’Donnell will oversee camera operations, ensure compliance with public records laws, support training and policy adherence, and help maintain accountability agency-wide.
Sheriff Al Nienhuis said the body-worn camera initiative represents one of the most significant steps HCSO has taken to strengthen community trust.
“Having someone with Tyler O’Donnell’s experience and professionalism leading this effort ensures our program meets the highest standards from day one,” Nienhuis said.
The Hernando County Board of County Commissioners approved initial funding for the program, authorizing the purchase of 294 Axon-manufactured body-worn cameras at an estimated initial cost of $2.9 million. Long-term costs are projected at approximately $11 million over 10 years, including staffing, data storage, and maintenance.
Currently, 57 of Florida’s 67 sheriff’s offices have implemented body-worn camera programs.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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