NCJ Number
138656
Journal
Law and Order Volume: 40 Issue: 8 Dated: (August 1992) Pages: 60-61,65-66
Date Published
1992
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article reports on the results of a survey of police administrators that inquired about their opinions on issues associated with the videotaping of patrol officers as they perform their normal duties.
Abstract
The procedure in question involves mounting a video camera with a wireless microphone on the dash of each patrol car. All action performed by the officer in front of the patrol car would thus be recorded. The intent of such videotaping is to provide visual evidence of officer contacts, particularly with those suspected of drunk driving and other traffic violations. The survey indicates that 76 percent of the police administrators surveyed did not believe videotaping officers in the performance of their duties is necessary, but neither would it hurt. Fifty-two percent of the respondents felt that officers in their departments would not resent being videotaped, 38 percent felt they would, and 10 percent were undecided. Sixty-two percent acknowledged that the taping of officers on duty would protect them from false claims of brutality or unprofessional behavior. Only 19 percent of the poll respondents said they would not consider using videotaping in their cruisers. Of the remaining 81 percent, 48 percent said they would, 5 percent were not sure, and 28 percent said they needed more information. The cost of the video equipment was reported to be a significant obstacle for many of the departments represented. Overall, most of the administrators saw value in the videotaping but were uncertain as to whether or not the potential benefits would justify the cost involved.