The prevalence, nature, and drivers of change in body-worn camera policy

Purpose This study examines changes in body-worn camera (BWC) policies. It aims to analyze trends in policy change, identify the drivers of policy change, and examine the degree of convergence over time, offering insights into the growing implementation of BWCs in policing. Design/methodology/approach To study BWC policy change, we examine data collected through an established policy review process to compare the original (2016–2021) and current (as of September 2023) BWC policies of 160 law enforcement agencies that received federal funding for cameras. Surveys from two dozen agencies provided insights on the drivers of BWC policy change. Findings Results indicate BWC policy changes are common, as 81% of agencies changed their policies at least once. Overall, we documented 957 unique changes to policy. Changes often involved additional parameters or restrictions on a policy issue (42%), though complete removal of policy language was also common (36.1%). Changes in technology and lessons learned/experiences were the biggest drivers of BWC policy change. Drawing on institutional theory, we also conduct an exploratory examination of the degree of policy convergence over time (e.g. increased similarity), and the evidence is consistent with that theory. Originality/value Police leaders, researchers, and policymakers unanimously highlight the importance of administrative policy in guiding an agency’s body-worn camera (BWC) program. However, there have been virtually no studies on the topic, and fundamental questions about BWC policy (and change in BWC policy) remain unanswered. The findings have implications for the growing evidence base on BWCs, as well as for law enforcement agencies that deploy the technology.