Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis examines the impact of body-worn cameras (BWCs) on police accountability and citizen perceptions. The use of BWCs by law enforcement agencies has become increasingly widespread in recent years, with proponents arguing that these devices enhance transparency, accountability, and trust between police officers and the communities they serve. However, there is a need for empirical research to assess the actual effects of BWCs on police behavior and citizen perceptions. Chapter One provides an introduction to the topic, discussing the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, and structure of the thesis. Definitions of key terms related to BWCs, police accountability, and citizen perceptions are also provided to establish a common understanding of the concepts explored in this research. Chapter Two presents a comprehensive literature review that examines previous studies on BWCs, police accountability, and citizen perceptions. The review covers topics such as the history of BWCs, the legal and ethical considerations surrounding their use, and the impact of BWCs on police-citizen interactions. The existing literature provides a foundation for understanding the potential effects of BWCs on police behavior and public trust. Chapter Three details the research methodology used in this study, including the research design, data collection methods, sample selection, and data analysis techniques. The chapter outlines how data was collected from police officers and community members to assess their perceptions of BWCs and their impact on police accountability. Chapter Four presents the findings of the study, analyzing the data collected from both police officers and citizens. The chapter explores the effects of BWCs on police behavior, the level of accountability perceived by both parties, and the overall impact of BWCs on police-community relations. The findings provide insights into the effectiveness of BWCs in promoting transparency and trust within law enforcement agencies. Chapter Five concludes the thesis by summarizing the key findings and their implications for police practices and public perceptions. The chapter discusses the limitations of the study, offers recommendations for future research, and suggests practical implications for policymakers and law enforcement agencies. Overall, this thesis contributes to the ongoing debate on the role of BWCs in enhancing police accountability and improving citizen perceptions of law enforcement.

Thesis Overview

"The Impact of Body-Worn Cameras on Police Accountability and Citizen Perceptions" is a comprehensive research project that aims to investigate the effects of body-worn cameras on enhancing police accountability and shaping citizen perceptions. In recent years, body-worn cameras have been increasingly adopted by law enforcement agencies as a tool to promote transparency and accountability in policing practices. The use of body-worn cameras has generated significant interest among policymakers, police departments, civil rights advocates, and the general public due to their potential to improve police-citizen interactions and increase trust in law enforcement. This research will delve into the existing literature on body-worn cameras in policing to provide a thorough understanding of the subject. By conducting a critical review of previous studies, this project will explore the various ways in which body-worn cameras impact police behavior, citizen behavior, perceptions of police legitimacy, and overall accountability in law enforcement. The research will also examine the potential limitations and challenges associated with the use of body-worn cameras, such as privacy concerns, data management issues, and the potential for unintended consequences. Furthermore, this project will employ a mixed-methods research approach, combining quantitative analysis of data collected from police departments that have implemented body-worn camera programs with qualitative insights gained from interviews with police officers, community members, and other key stakeholders. By triangulating data from multiple sources, this research aims to provide a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of the impact of body-worn cameras on police accountability and citizen perceptions. The findings of this study are expected to contribute valuable insights to the existing body of knowledge on body-worn cameras in policing and inform evidence-based policy recommendations for the effective implementation of body-worn camera programs. By shedding light on the potential benefits and challenges associated with body-worn cameras, this research seeks to facilitate informed decision-making by policymakers and law enforcement agencies to promote transparency, accountability, and trust in policing practices.