Why Do Police Officers Use Body Cameras

Body Cameras in the Police Force Crimes are a growing problem to the United States, and the types of crimes committed are more horrific than ever. They happen in every city, of every state, every day. In recent years, many cases involving decisions made by police officers have divided the nation over the verdict of each case. Most of these cases could have been solved quickly if one thing had been used, body cameras. Cameras are already used in police cars and provide clarity to traffic stops, police chases, and anything happening in front of the officer’s car. What they are missing however, is what happens from the officer’s point of view. Body cameras, if used in the police force, could help solve crimes and reduce the controversy of incidents in the future. …show more content…
Retired Chief of Police Lonnie Westphal points out that seventy-two percent of police vehicles are equipped with dash cameras currently, and the number is still increasing. Cameras are a great help to officers in many ways and help to aid their performance. A survey of officers conducted in 2002 by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) shows that officers frequently use dash cameras to review their actions and critique themselves in hope to better their actions as an officer.(Westphal) Troopers have also reported that using cameras has helped them in many dangerous situations, such as felony stops and pursuits. These videos also have an educational side as well, helping to train officers giving real world examples of dangerous situations and helping to further examine the performance of officers. Although it is rare, officers are sometimes injured or even killed in the line of duty. Video tapes from dash cameras have made apprehending the offender much