The incident occurred last week when a captain at Rikers Island had her body camera unexpectedly catch fire.

The unnamed corrections officer was swiftly transported to Mount Sinai for medical attention after her body camera erupted into flames. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation, with the Corrections Department collaborating closely with the camera's manufacturer to determine the root cause.

Expressing concern for the injured officer, Corrections Commissioner Lynelle Maginley-Liddie emphasized the importance of staff safety. "The safety of our staff is paramount, which is why I am removing all body-worn cameras from service out of an abundance of caution while we investigate how and why this incident occurred," Maginley-Liddie stated.

Although this is the first incident of its kind within the Department of Corrections, it is not the first time that a New York City law enforcement officer has experienced a body camera catching fire. In 2018, the NYPD suspended the use of the Vievu model LE-5 body-worn camera when one of its officers discovered smoke emitting from the device. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as the camera exploded after the officer removed it from his body.

Similarly, in 2021, incidents involving the overheating of Axon AB2 model cameras were reported. Officers took off the cameras when they began to smoke, prompting an investigation by Axon. NBC New York reported that no injuries were sustained in these incidents.

The manufacturer of the body camera worn by the injured corrections officer has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the incident.

As the investigation continues, the Department of Corrections remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of its staff. The temporary suspension of body-worn cameras reflects the agency's commitment to thoroughly examining the cause of the fire and implementing necessary measures to prevent any future incidents.