The impact of body-worn cameras on police-citizen interactions in reducing use of force incidents: A case study.

Thesis Abstract

**Abstract
** Body-worn cameras (BWCs) have become increasingly prevalent in law enforcement agencies as a tool to enhance transparency and accountability in police-citizen interactions. This study investigates the impact of BWCs on police-citizen interactions, specifically focusing on their role in reducing use of force incidents. Through a case study approach, the research explores how the presence of BWCs influences the behavior of both police officers and citizens during interactions, with the aim of understanding the effectiveness of these devices in de-escalating potentially volatile situations. The literature review provides a comprehensive analysis of existing studies on BWCs and their impact on policing practices. Key themes explored include the potential benefits of BWCs in increasing accountability, improving officer behavior, and enhancing the quality of evidence in legal proceedings. The review also addresses criticisms and challenges associated with BWC implementation, such as privacy concerns, data management issues, and potential biases in the interpretation of footage. The research methodology section outlines the case study design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques employed in this study. Data will be gathered through a combination of interviews with police officers, analysis of BWC footage, and review of departmental policies and procedures. The analysis will focus on identifying patterns and trends in police-citizen interactions before and after the implementation of BWCs, with a particular emphasis on instances of use of force. Findings from the study will be presented and discussed in Chapter Four, offering insights into the impact of BWCs on police behavior, citizen compliance, and the overall dynamics of interactions. The discussion will also explore factors that may influence the effectiveness of BWCs, such as officer training, departmental culture, and community perceptions of policing. In conclusion, this thesis highlights the significance of BWCs as a tool for improving police-citizen interactions and reducing use of force incidents. The study contributes to the growing body of research on the impact of technology on policing practices and provides practical recommendations for law enforcement agencies seeking to enhance accountability and transparency through the use of BWCs. Keywords Body-worn cameras, police-citizen interactions, use of force, accountability, transparency, policing practices, case study.