Cops, Cameras, and Crisis

Abstract

This book serves as the go-to resource for those who are interested in police body-worn cameras. The first part of the book (chapters 2 and 3) delves deeply into the claims made about BWCs by both advocates and critics, coupled with an exhaustive examination of the research base on each of those claims. Moreover, throughout the book, there are quotes and vignettes from experts in the field who have hands-on experience with police BWCs to illustrate important points. The authors also offer insights on the potential reasons for variation in research findings. In chapter 4, they examine the past, present, and future of police BWCs through two different, complementary lenses. The first is the diffusion of innovations framework. The second lens is the evidence-based policing framework. Both the diffusion of innovation and evidence-based policing frameworks provide insights on the “how and why” questions regarding current rates of BWC adoption, and just as important, they provide an informed position to consider the prospects for BWCs in the future. There are two objectives in chapter 5. The first is a forward-looking review of the next set of challenges for BWC adopters. These challenge center on both human and technological elements of a BWC program. The second objective centers on the importance of planning and implementation. The book ends with a few important takeaway messages on the role of BWCs in policing and how the technology can help police to achieve their core mission.