The Quantitative Edge: Estimating the Impact of Body-Worn Cameras on Police Performance with Continuous Treatment Matching

• In Event: Policing and Technology

Abstract

This study examines how the number of body-worn cameras (BWCs) affects operational efficiency. Research shows that BWCs have positive effects on efficiency. An untested hypothesis is the effect that each additional BWC has on efficiency. Against this backdrop, the author employs a novel matching methodology for continuous treatments to assess the marginal effect on the efficiency of each additional BWC in the agency. The data draws from various administrative datasets from various law enforcement agencies on the non-linear impacts of BWCs on factors such as incident resolution times, complaint resolution efficacy, and the quality of police-public interactions. Furthermore, the findings reveal a threshold effect where initial increments in BWC numbers correlate with marked efficiency gains, which plateau beyond a certain number of BWC. From an operational point of view, the results suggest that while BWCs contribute to enhanced police efficiency, there is an optimal range of camera deployment that maximizes benefits and minimizes costs. In conclusion, the study offers important insights for policymakers and law enforcement administrators on implementing BWCs strategically to bolster policing outcomes effectively.

Author

• Erik Alda, Marymount University