NCJ Number
194282
Journal
Police Quarterly Volume: 5 Issue: 1 Dated: March 2002 Pages: 25-42
Date Published
March 2002
Length
18 pages
Annotation
This article reviews the benefits of in-car video technology.
Abstract
Video technology could deter abuses by officers, limit frivolous complaints against officers about alleged abuses, and help restore and build confidence in the fairness of police departments. Los Angeles, CA; Kansas City, MO; and Chicago, IL, are among the large metropolitan areas that have adopted in-car video (ICV) technology. The Chicago Police Department (CPD) has completed two pilot programs to evaluate the technology, which they used to videotape driving-under-the-influence cases. Two issues in implementing ICV in Illinois are State laws regarding audio recording and eavesdropping, and how to "police the police" and build confidence with patrol officers. Video technology could provide evidence of crimes or attacks against officers, streamline the truth-finding process by providing the best evidence, and encourage the humane treatment of suspects. The article concludes that ICV systems have the potential to add a layer of accountability and trust between the police and the public. Notes, references