The Impact of Police Body Cameras on Use of Force Incidents: A Criminological Analysis

Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The use of police body cameras has become a prevalent tool in law enforcement agencies worldwide, aiming to increase transparency, accountability, and trust between officers and the community. This thesis presents a comprehensive criminological analysis of the impact of police body cameras on use of force incidents. The research examines the effectiveness of body-worn cameras in reducing the frequency and severity of use of force incidents by law enforcement officers, as well as the implications for police-community relations and accountability. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, outlining the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definitions of key terms. The chapter sets the foundation for the research by highlighting the importance of investigating the impact of police body cameras on the use of force incidents within a criminological framework. Chapter Two offers a detailed literature review, consisting of ten key items that explore existing studies, theories, and findings related to police body cameras, use of force incidents, and their intersection within the field of criminology. The review synthesizes current knowledge in the field and identifies gaps in the literature that the present study aims to address. Chapter Three focuses on the research methodology, detailing the research design, sampling techniques, data collection methods, variables, measures, and data analysis procedures. This chapter provides a comprehensive overview of how the study was conducted to investigate the impact of police body cameras on use of force incidents from a criminological perspective. Chapter Four presents an in-depth discussion of the research findings, analyzing the data collected and evaluating the impact of police body cameras on the frequency and severity of use of force incidents. The chapter explores the implications of the findings for law enforcement policies, practices, and community relations, offering insights into the effectiveness of body-worn cameras in improving police accountability and reducing use of force incidents. Chapter Five concludes the thesis by summarizing the key findings, discussing their significance in the context of criminology, and offering recommendations for future research and policy implications. The conclusion highlights the contributions of the study to the field of criminology and underscores the importance of continued research on the impact of police body cameras on use of force incidents for promoting transparency, accountability, and trust in law enforcement practices. In conclusion, this thesis provides a comprehensive examination of the impact of police body cameras on use of force incidents from a criminological perspective, offering valuable insights into the effectiveness of body-worn cameras in improving police-community relations and accountability. The findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on police reform and suggest implications for policy, practice, and future research in the field of criminology.