Body-Worn Cameras and Community Trust in Policing
Background
High-profile encounters between police and people of color have intensified concerns about police–community relationships. In response, body-worn cameras have been promoted as a technological solution to improve accountability, officer behavior, and public trust.
Purpose
This study examines community perceptions of body-worn cameras through 40 in-depth interviews with residents in Washington, DC. It explores how the adoption of policing technology shapes relationships between communities and local government, particularly police departments.
Outcome
The findings show that while residents believe body-worn cameras can improve officer behavior and enhance police legitimacy, they do not expect cameras alone to build trust between police and communities. The study highlights the limits of technological reforms and emphasizes the need for complementary, collaborative strategies to strengthen police–community relationships.