This paper sought to examine the effects of body-worn cameras on public perceptions and other benefits they possess. These benefits were found to be limited by police officer discretion with regard to body-worn camera activation. Deterrence theory is discussed in regard to why body-worn cameras can be an effective tool in many communities to increase transparency and openness between police departments and their communities. This paper reviews empirical studies conducted of body-worn cameras and some of the benefits they can produce when used efficiently. Literature was also reviewed for public perception on body-worn cameras, an important factor in policy implementation. Further research and firsthand accounts show the harms of how low activation rates of body-worn cameras can limit their benefits. To curb this, automatic activation of body-worn cameras is looked at as a useful policy to be implemented in order to curb further police misconduct and body-worn camera misuse.

Vincent would like to thank Professor Brumfield-Young for their support of this project and his girlfriend Gabriela Miller for motivation and inspiration throughout his work.