Are Body-Worn Cameras a “Silver Bullet” Solution?

Abstract

This chapter is devoted to the perceived benefits of BWCs. For each perceived benefit (enhanced transparency and legitimacy, accountability, reductions in force and complaints, evidentiary value, etc.), the authors concisely review the evidence and offer an assessment of the veracity of the claim. Based on the weight of the evidence, what can we conclude about the impact of BWCs on police legitimacy? What can we conclude about the impact of BWCs on use of force? In this chapter, the authors answer these questions..