Same old story? Revealing Discrepancies Between Promises and Realities in CCTV and Body-Worn Cameras for Crime Prevention, Investigation, and Trial.

• In Event: POL Panel 20. Criminal Justice and AI: Bias, public perception and ethics

Abstract

At the start of the 21st century, Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV) was introduced as a revolutionary tool for enhancing crime prevention. The rationale for extending CCTV coverage was to aid in investigative work and provide evidence for trials. Fifteen years later, Body-Worn Cameras (BWC) were introduced and also hailed as a game-changer in this field. Especially to address excessive use of force by police officers, outcomes often fail to meet expectations despite promises. This presentation examines the landscape of surveillance technologies, highlighting the discrepancies between the assurances made and the outcomes delivered. We critically examine empirical evidence and case studies to reveal the limitations and challenges associated with CCTV and BWC in their intended roles. This presentation addresses issues related to privacy infringement and the complexities of evidence admissibility when navigating the intricate terrain of surveillance technologies in the criminal justice system. It prompts a reevaluation of the efficacy and ethical implications of CCTV and BWC in contemporary criminology by highlighting the recurring issue of unmet promises.

Author

• Paweł Waszkiewicz, Faculty of Law and Administration