In recent years, body-worn cameras (BWCs) have emerged as an essential tool for enhancing transparency, promoting law enforcement accountability, and improving public trust. The increasing rates of camera adoption and growing interest from municipalities and law enforcement agencies have brought new challenges and opportunities to the BWC landscape. This article will explore the key considerations for implementing BWCs in 2019, including technological advances, policy considerations, and funding opportunities.

Technological Advancements in Body-Worn Cameras

As BWC technology continues to evolve, law enforcement agencies have a wide range of options to choose from, each with various features, price points, and support services. When evaluating potential BWC systems, agencies should consider the following factors:

1. Video Resolution:Higher resolution cameras offer better image quality, but they can also require more storage capacity and processing power, which can increase costs. Agencies must weigh the benefits of higher resolution against the potential expense.

2. Battery Life:BWCs should ideally last for an entire shift without needing to be recharged. However, longer battery life can increase the size and weight of the device, which might affect officer comfort.

3. Data Storage:The method of storing footage is a critical consideration. Agencies can choose between cloud-based storage, which offers scalability and easy access but may raise privacy concerns, or local storage, which can offer greater control but potentially higher costs and maintenance requirements.

4. Integration:Agencies should look for systems that can easily integrate with other technology platforms, such as computer-aided dispatch, records management systems, and evidence management platforms.

5. Support and Training:Adequate support and training for personnel is another important consideration. Agencies must select a vendor and plan that fits their needs and technical capabilities.

Policy Considerations for 2019

As BWCs become more prevalent, policy considerations surrounding the use of cameras are also becoming increasingly important. Agencies should be prepared to address several key issues when deploying BWCs:

1. Camera Activation:Clear guidelines should outline when officers should activate their cameras, accounting for various scenarios such as routine encounters, traffic stops, and use-of-force incidents.

2. Data Access and Retention:Agencies should establish data retention policies, specifying how long footage is stored and under what circumstances footage can be accessed, viewed, or released to the public.

3. Privacy Concerns:BWCs pose privacy concerns for both officers and citizens, especially in situations involving sensitive interactions or vulnerable individuals. Policies should address these concerns and provide clear guidelines on how to protect privacy while ensuring transparency.

4. Officer Training and Accountability:Proper training is essential for officers to effectively use and manage BWCs. Additionally, policies should outline steps for reviewing and addressing potential policy violations and officer misconduct related to BWC use.

Funding Opportunities and Resources

Securing funding for BWC implementation can be challenging, but several resources and opportunities are available to assist agencies:

1. Federal Grants:The U.S. Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) offers funding opportunities through its Body-Worn Camera Policy and Implementation Program (BWCPIP). The BWCPIP provides financial assistance and technical support to help state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies develop, implement, and evaluate body-worn camera programs.

2. State and Local Funding:Individual states and local jurisdictions may also offer funding opportunities for BWC programs. Agencies should research potential funding sources within their region.

3. Private Grants and Donors:Private foundations, philanthropic organizations, and community partners may be willing to support BWC initiatives with funding or other resources.

4. Cost Savings:Implementing BWCs might result in cost savings for the agency over time, such as reduced litigation expenses, fewer public complaints, and more efficient uses of resources. These potential savings can help make the case for BWC implementation.

Adapt and Adjust:The Road Ahead

As technology continues to evolve and public expectations shift, law enforcement agencies must adapt and adjust when implementing BWCs. Staying informed about emerging best practices, technological advancements and grant opportunities will enable agencies to develop and maintain effective BWC programs that meet the diverse needs of their communities and enhance public trust. By continually evaluating and refining their approaches to BWC policy, technology and funding, law enforcement agencies can ensure that they are well-equipped to face the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in the coming years.