What Happened?
Police are using a new technology to oversee police actions on a real-time basis. Using miniature cameras attached to eyeglasses, officers can videotape all interactions while on the job. As a result, complaints against the Rialto, CA (population 100,000) police force fell by 88 percent and use of force dropped by more than half according to an article in the NYTimes.com. In regards to the use of force, officers not wearing cameras were 2x as likely to use it.
The Goal
This fall, following a successful trial of the equipment, all 66 police officers will wear the cameras while on the job. Interestingly, there may be significant benefits in addition to the lower complaints and decreased use of force. Citizens often notice the cameras, and tend to be better behaved as a result. Additionally, there may soon be evidence that having video of police encounters can lead to more convictions. Ultimately though, the department moved to supply all officers with cameras because the police chief saw a significant change in behavior by his officers.
Other Cities
According to Taser International, one of the companies marketing the miniature cameras, police departments in Pittsburgh, Albuquerque, Oakland, Salt Lake City, Hartford, Fort Worth and at least three others have placed orders. Despite a cost of up to $900 each, cities continue to pursue the equipment as a method of primarily resolving complaints against officers and the department in general. When considering the cost of liability in cases of officer abuse, departments are recognizing they can head off expensive litigation and outcomes.
Data
The NYTimes article also weighs in with quotes from the American Civil Liberties Union, which touts the protection of citizens from police abuse, while simultaneously warning against potential privacy concerns. There are no set policies that all departments are following in the use of cameras. During Rialto’s trial period, officers were randomly assigned to wear the equipment, which allowed for a better sample of data. The use of force was still used and captured by the cameras, so the department had evidence officers were not simply deciding to capture non-physical incidents.