Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The utilization of body-worn cameras (BWCs) by law enforcement agencies has become increasingly prevalent as a tool to enhance police accountability and improve public trust. This thesis explores the impact of BWCs on police officer accountability and public trust in law enforcement. The research methodology employed a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both quantitative data analysis and qualitative interviews with police officers and community members. Chapter One provides an introduction to the research topic, presenting the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. Chapter Two presents a comprehensive literature review, examining existing research on the effects of BWCs on police accountability and public trust. In Chapter Three, the research methodology is detailed, including the research design, sampling methods, data collection techniques, and data analysis procedures. The chapter also discusses ethical considerations and limitations of the study. Chapter Four presents the findings of the research, highlighting the impact of BWCs on police officer behavior, perceptions of accountability, and levels of public trust in law enforcement. The discussion delves into the complexities of implementing BWC programs, the challenges faced by officers and departments, and the potential benefits for enhancing transparency and accountability. Finally, Chapter Five offers a conclusion and summary of the thesis, synthesizing the key findings and implications for policy and practice. The research findings suggest that while BWCs have the potential to improve police accountability and public trust, their effectiveness is influenced by various factors such as departmental policies, officer attitudes, community perceptions, and legal considerations. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of literature on the impact of BWCs on police accountability and public trust, providing valuable insights for law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and researchers interested in enhancing transparency and building trust between police and the communities they serve.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "The Impact of Body-Worn Cameras on Police Officer Accountability and Public Trust in Law Enforcement" aims to investigate the effects of body-worn cameras (BWCs) on police officer accountability and public trust within the context of law enforcement. The use of BWCs has become increasingly prevalent in policing as a tool to enhance transparency, accountability, and trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve. These cameras are worn by police officers during their interactions with the public, capturing audio and video recordings of encounters and activities. The project seeks to explore the extent to which the presence of BWCs influences the behavior of police officers, their adherence to departmental policies and procedures, and the perceptions of accountability and trust among community members. The research overview will involve an in-depth examination of existing literature on the topic, exploring studies that have investigated the implementation and impact of BWC programs in various law enforcement agencies. The project will also involve collecting primary data through surveys, interviews, and observations to assess the attitudes and experiences of both police officers and community members regarding the use of BWCs. Key areas of focus will include examining the perceived benefits and challenges of BWCs, evaluating the impact of BWCs on police officer behavior and decision-making, and assessing the effects of BWCs on public perceptions of police accountability and trustworthiness. The project will also consider the implications of BWC use for police-community relations, civil liberties, and the overall effectiveness of law enforcement practices. By conducting a comprehensive analysis of the impact of BWCs on police officer accountability and public trust, this project aims to provide valuable insights that can inform policy decisions, improve police practices, and enhance relationships between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.