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| The many angles of in-car cameras |
| by Mark J. Pescatore |
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We as an industry have been preaching about the benefits of in-car cameras for years the footage can be used for training and evidence, plus video can create a safer environment for both law enforcement officials and citizens. Now, a new study from the International Association of Chiefs of Police provides the proof to support these claims. While its extensive findings are far too numerous to squeeze into one editorial, even a few highlights are enough to show that these systems are an invaluable addition to any patrol car.
According to Grady Baker, project director for the IACP, the first part of the study focused on the process; that is, the cost of in-car camera systems, effectiveness of these systems, and potential problems. The second part of the study researched the effect that in-car camera systems are having on agency policy and procedures.
Over 18 months, the study collected data from 20 state police departments of various sizes. Initial data was collected with questionnaires, then researchers followed up with in-depth interviews with line officers, managers, and executives. Departments even distributed surveys to members of the community that attended community and volunteer sessions to get feedback from outside the police force. The result is extensive data from thousands of participants.
The study was funded by the Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services, also known as COPS. A product of the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, the COPS mission is focused at the local level, advancing community policing by getting more officers on the street and giving them access to technically advanced tools.
Frequently, the agency awards grant monies to law enforcement for various projects. Last year, for example, COPS provided more than $3 million for in-car cameras for 17 state law enforcement agencies.
Safety And Numbers
Officer safety in particular was studied during the project. Officers reported that confrontational individuals would calm down when the officer told them that the incident was being videotaped. Now thats deterrence. Its a bit odd to me that a gun doesnt intimidate people but a video camera does, but Im not about to argue with results if its keeping our cops safe.
Another area of officer safety, training, is another area where in-car cameras excel. The majority of officers that were interviewed said they review their in-car camera footage as a means of self-critique. Plus, particular instances can be archived and used for more general training purposes.
Youd think that the positive results regarding officer safety would be enough to convince officials in every level of government that in-car cameras should be as standard in patrol cars as flashing lights and sirens. But sometimes it comes down to dollars, not sense.
The data from more than 3,000 officer surveys indicated that in-car camera footage cleared an officer from an alleged complaint more than 96 percent of the time. In fact, at least half of the time, when someone is informed about a video record of an incident, the complaint is withdrawn.
This might be the most important bit of information to come out of the 18-month study, because it provides a rationalization for in-car cameras that politicians simply cannot ignore. In-car cameras reduce frivolous complaints about law enforcement officers. They protect good cops and help weed out the bad ones. As a result, in-car cameras save two important department resources time and money.
Trends To Watch
Of course, not all the data was positive. Some officers admitted that they would perform for the camera, sometimes putting themselves at risk for the sake of a better camera angle. Not surprising, the study showed that most of these officers didnt receive any formal training regarding the use of their in-car cameras.
Another potential problem is relying on video for documenting information. Some officers said their note-taking and interviewing skills have suffered because they are becoming more dependent on video footage to prepare written reports. This could be a problem if there is an equipment malfunction, or perhaps if an officer uses a vehicle thats not equipped with an in-car system.
Just like other law enforcement tools, officers need to be trained on the use of an in-car camera system. They have to be reminded that showing their good side is far less important than not getting shot. And while video footage is a convenience, it shouldnt be the only means of gathering evidence and information. However, these potential negatives, while important, can be easily corrected through training, and are certainly outweighed by the positive impact of in-car cameras.
Mark J. Pescatore is the editor. Contact him at mpescatore@cmpinformation.com.
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