By Kotie Geldenhuys
Photo courtesy of Pixabay
A law enforcement officer’s body-worn camera is arguably one of the most significant pieces of equipment in contemporary policing. These cameras record interactions between law enforcers and community members during everyday events involving tension, conflict and collaboration. The device is regarded as a sign of increased transparency and accountability for some, while others question its impact on privacy and trust. The increasing use of body-worn cameras in policing agencies and the security sector is redefining perceptions of law enforcers, both regarding the recording of incidents and how communities view those who are supposed to protect them.
In light of growing concerns about misconduct and the use of excessive force by some police officials worldwide, 21st century technologies, including big data, cloud computing and body-worn cameras, have become crucial tools for effective policing. According to Curlewis and Sepuru (2022), new digital technological developments may improve the efficiency of communication between the public and police officials and in developing modern policing. Body-worn cameras are such an innovation, also dealing with the issue of poor supervision in law enforcement agencies.
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[This is only an extract of an article published in Servamus: August 2026. This article is available for purchase.]