The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office has released body-worn camera (BWC) footage of a March 31, 2024, incident involving Hightstown Borough Police Officers Daniel Abbatemarco and Kenneth Larsen. The footage, which is part of the BWC Wins program, highlights the officers’ role in saving the life of an infant who was choking.
Acting Mercer County Prosecutor Theresa L. Hilton emphasized the importance of body-worn cameras in enhancing transparency and public trust.
“Every day, officers face critical situations that the public would never learn about if not for body-worn cameras. The BWC Wins program aims to create more transparency by highlighting body-worn camera footage of officers during their daily duties,” Hilton said.
The BWC Wins program, funded by a grant from the U.S. Bureau of Justice Assistance, is designed to showcase police interactions captured on body cameras.
This initiative not only serves to inform the public but also includes a training component for law enforcement personnel, with monthly video releases aimed at improving professional practices.
The footage released today was provided by the Hightstown Police Department, led by Chief Frank Gendron.
Gendron expressed appreciation for the program, stating, “Body cameras are powerful tools that protect and assist our officers with their difficult jobs, and I’m pleased to have the outstanding work of Officers Abbatemarco and Larsen recognized.”
Hilton noted that the BWC Wins program complements New Jersey’s Attorney General’s Excellence in Policing program, which focuses on enhancing transparency and accountability within law enforcement.
The released footage can be viewed at the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office website: BWC Wins Program Video. Additionally, a brief survey is available for public feedback at Survey Link.