The Impact of Body-Worn Cameras on Police Accountability and Public Trust in Law Enforcement

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Body-worn cameras (BWCs) have become increasingly prevalent in law enforcement agencies as a tool to enhance police accountability and public trust. This thesis explores the impact of BWCs on police accountability and public trust in law enforcement. The study is motivated by the growing interest in the potential benefits of BWCs in improving police-citizen interactions and increasing transparency in policing practices. The research methodology employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative analysis of data from surveys and interviews with qualitative analysis of case studies and literature reviews. The study involved participants from both law enforcement agencies and community members to provide a comprehensive understanding of the perspectives on BWCs. The literature review revealed that BWCs have the potential to improve accountability by providing an objective record of police-citizen interactions, enhancing evidence collection, and promoting ethical behavior among officers. However, concerns were raised about privacy issues, data management, and the potential for BWCs to exacerbate existing disparities in policing practices. The findings from the research methodology highlighted the positive impact of BWCs on police accountability and public trust. Participants reported feeling more secure during interactions with officers wearing BWCs, and there was a perception of increased transparency and fairness in policing practices. However, challenges such as data privacy, officer training, and community engagement were identified as areas requiring further attention. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the existing literature on the impact of BWCs on police accountability and public trust by providing empirical evidence from a diverse range of stakeholders. The findings suggest that BWCs have the potential to enhance accountability and trust in law enforcement, but careful consideration must be given to addressing challenges related to implementation and data management. Recommendations for policy and practice are provided to guide future research and the effective use of BWCs in law enforcement agencies.