This paper examines body-worn camera activation as an officer-level decision-making process; it lays out the authors' research methodology and findings, which suggest that officer characteristics and performance are not primary drivers of BWC activation; and makes recommendations for police departments to ensure that cameras are implemented as intended.
Body-worn cameras (BWCs) are intended to promote transparency and accountability. However, officer failure to activate BWCs remains a concern. Research has identified types of incidents associated with activation failure, but has not examined activation as a measure of performance. The authors examine BWC activation as an officer-level decision-making process, assessing the influence of demographics, assignments, and performance (e.g., proactivity) on activation rates over time. Negative binominal and multinomial logistic regression were used to analyze data from 149 officers assigned to wear BWCs during a randomized-controlled trial. Activation rates ranged from 0–88% of calls-for-service. Group-based trajectory modeling identified three activation trends: decreased, increased then decreased, and increased and tapered off. Limited relationships between officer-level predictors and activation were identified. Findings suggest officer characteristics and performance are not primary drivers of BWC activation. Departments should use supervision, retraining, and policy intervention to ensure BWCs are implemented as intended. (Published Abstract Provided)
Downloads
Similar Publications
- Programs That Support Law Enforcement
- FY 2024 Solicitation Overview: Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program—Local Solicitation
- FY 2024 Solicitation Overview: Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) National Law Enforcement Survivor Support and National Firefighter and First Responder Survivor Support Programs Competitive Grant Solicitation