Exploring the Unique Challenges of Body-Worn Camera Deployment in Small Law Enforcement Agencies

• In Event: Use of Technology in Policing and Corrections

Abstract

Police departments across the country have been outfitting their officers with body-worn cameras (BWCs) in increasing numbers over the last few years. Discussions of BWCs typically surround topics important for all law enforcement agencies, such as training and policy. The challenges of planning and implementing a BWC program are likely different for small agencies (fewer than 50 sworn personnel), however, which may struggle to generate the critical technological, logistical, and human resources required for successful BWC planning and deployment. Unfortunately, research has not sufficiently explored the unique challenges associated with BWC rollout in small law enforcement agencies. This is a troubling research gap, given the rapid diffusion of BWCs and the large number of small agencies in the US. The current study addresses this gap based on a survey of more than 200 small law enforcement agencies across the country. Results focus on small agency perceptions of the strengths and weaknesses of BWCs, as well as the unique barriers to deployment of the technology in the small agency setting. The authors offer some recommendations for small agency BWC planning and implementation based on the survey results.

Authors

• Janne Gaub, Arizona State University

• Danielle Wallace, Arizona State University

• Michael White, Arizona State University