The Impact of Body-Worn Cameras on Police-Citizen Interactions: A Criminological Analysis

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Body-worn cameras (BWCs) have become increasingly prevalent in law enforcement agencies around the world as a tool to enhance transparency and accountability in police-citizen interactions. The use of BWCs raises important questions regarding their impact on the behavior of both police officers and citizens during encounters. This thesis conducts a criminological analysis to investigate the impact of body-worn cameras on police-citizen interactions, focusing on the potential benefits and challenges associated with their use. The study begins with an exploration of the theoretical background underlying the adoption of BWCs in policing, examining relevant literature on the potential effects of surveillance technologies on behavior and accountability. Drawing on existing research, the thesis identifies gaps in the literature and formulates research questions to guide the investigation. A mixed-methods approach is employed to collect and analyze data on the use of BWCs in police-citizen interactions. Quantitative data is gathered through surveys and quantitative analysis, while qualitative data is obtained through interviews with police officers and community members. The findings from both data sources are triangulated to provide a comprehensive understanding of the impact of BWCs on various aspects of police-citizen interactions. The results of the study reveal both positive and negative effects of BWCs on police behavior, citizen behavior, and the overall dynamics of police-citizen encounters. While BWCs have been shown to enhance accountability and transparency, they also raise concerns about privacy, trust, and the potential for unintended consequences. The implications of these findings for policy, practice, and future research are discussed in detail. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the growing body of literature on the use of body-worn cameras in policing by providing a nuanced analysis of their impact on police-citizen interactions. The findings highlight the complex nature of BWCs as a technology that has the potential to shape behavior and perceptions on both sides of the law enforcement equation. By shedding light on the benefits and challenges associated with BWCs, this study aims to inform evidence-based decision-making in the ongoing debate over the use of surveillance technologies in law enforcement.