Civilian Perceptions of Body-Worn Cameras

Date of Conferral

10-27-2023

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Criminal Justice

Advisor

Dr. Grace Telesco

Abstract

Numerous studies have been conducted concerning the effects that body-worn cameras (BWCs) have had on law enforcement and public behavior. These studies have focused on the cameras' impact on service and the results of the calls. However, less research has been conducted on civilians' perceptions and feelings about BWCs when encounters with law enforcement are recorded. The purpose of this study was to address the gap in the literature that concentrates on the perception of BWCs from the point of view of civilians when being interviewed by law enforcement officers during investigative or casual encounters. Using narrative inquiry and the social cognitive theory, this qualitative study consisted of interviews and data collection from nine participants selected through purposeful sampling. The study was directed towards studying civilians' thoughts and lived experiences relating to BWCs with civilians in a southeastern area of the United States. Additionally, the factor of trust in law enforcement during the interviews between law enforcement and civilians was studied to determine if there was any impact on the thoughts and feelings of the interviewees. The results of the analyses indicated that all of the participants had positive views of BWCs, and when speaking to an officer wearing a BWC, intimidation was not prevalent. Additionally, when asked if they believed the officer when told that the camera was not recording, their responses ranged from trusting that the officer was telling the truth to skepticism regarding the officer’s statement. The findings may be used by law-enforcement administration for positive change to better serve the public and officers.

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