The world of law enforcement is ever-evolving, reflecting the shifting dynamics of society. One important aspect of this evolution has taken shape in the form of body cameras, which are now indispensable tools in modern policing. The scale of acceptance and urgency in adopting this technology has never been this widespread. Yet, there often seems to be a haze of ambiguity surrounding its origins and rise. Therefore, it is not the 'why' but the 'when' we delve into, in this write-up - 'when did the police start using body cameras?'

Tracing back to the roots of enforcement, the connection between technology and policing isn't new. Each emergence and evolution has aimed to improve public safety and law enforcement's accountability and transparency. The dawn of the era of body-worn cameras in law enforcement wasn't an abrupt one. Like any other technological advancement, it too has seen stages of trials, enhancements, and full acceptance.

On a global scale, the first reported use of body cameras by the police occurred in the UK, in Devon and Cornwall in 2005. The application of this tool was in its infancy, but the potential advantages of the technology were quickly recognized. The adoption of this technology in the United States was received with both urgency and skepticism. It was first initiated by the Rialto Police Department in Rialto, California, during an experimental trial in 2012. The objective was to monitor officer and civilian behaviours during interactions, ultimately reducing the use of force incidents and complaints against officers.

During the initial period, these cameras were designed primarily to record events after the fact. However, with the advancement in technology, body cameras have now been designed to be more proactive, triggering a recording when they pick up certain actions or words.

Body camera usage saw a significant spike following the tragic incident of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri, in August 2014.This particular incident resulted in widespread protests about biased policing, excessive use of force and the lack of transparency. The event acted as a catalyst, motivating many police departments in the USA to commence body camera programs in their quest for transparency and accountability. It attempted to bridge the trust gap between law enforcement and the public, and law enforcement agencies found the body camera to be a highly effective tool for this purpose.

These cameras gradually became a common sight in policing around the US and beyond. By 2016, around half of America's medium-to-large police departments had been equipped with body cameras. The numbers have steadily amplified since then.

Academic studies have revealed that body-worn cameras have multiple advantages. They serve as an "objective" witness in contentious incidents, provide evidence for criminal investigations, and offer opportunities for officer training and performance reviews. Although concerns about privacy and data management persist, the cameras' operational significance can't be overlooked.

As technology continues to advance and society adapts to these changes, it is an understatement to say that body cameras will leave an indelible imprint on modern policing. The dissection of 'when' in this article strives to acknowledge the intertwining influence of technology and societal needs, and how they have shaped this vital component of present-day law enforcement.

Indeed, as we traverse the timeline from the introductory stage of body cameras in 2005 to their widespread use today, it is remarkable to look back at how this small device has revolutionized the face and dimensions of policing and societal trust. And with technology advancing with leaps and bounds, it is exciting to ponder 'what's next' in this transformative journey of law enforcement.