Implementing a Body-Worn Camera Program Recommendations and Lessons Learned

In recent years, many law enforcement agencies have been deploying small video cameras worn by officers to record encounters with the public; investigate officer-involved incidents; produce evidence; and strengthen agency performance, accountability, and transparency. While body-worn cameras have the potential to improve police services, they also raise issues involving privacy, police-community relationships, procedural justice, and technical and cost questions, all of which agencies should examine as they consider this technology. The Police Executive Research Forum, with support from the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, conducted research in 2013 on the use of body-worn cameras. This research included interviews with police executives, a review of agencies' policies, and a national conference at which 200 police executives and other experts discussed their experiences with body-worn cameras. This publication describes the findings of this research, explores the issues surrounding body-worn cameras, and offers policy recommendations for law enforcement agencies.