COPS BEHIND THE LENSES: LIVED EXPERIENCES OF POLICE OFFICERS WEARING BODY-WORN CAMERAS DURING POLICE OPERATIONS

Authors: Lynn Grace M. Retiza, Eric John C. Bitala, Cip G. De Asis, Rafael Karlo B. Demafeliz, Analie S. Frondoza, Ericka Denise G. Gramatica, Christine F. Nadado, Joenel P. Rama, Rolando M. Rio, Aljie D. Tababa Adviser: Dr. Nicholas S. Caballero

Abstract

Crime and abuse of power are rampant nowadays, police departments globally are resorting to modern equipment, including Body-Worn Cameras. The widespread and growing adoption regarding the effectiveness of body-worn cameras is uncertain, based on random interviews many cases are dismissed because of improper use of body-worn cameras.

This study aimed to explore the experiences of police officers wearing body-worn cameras during police operation in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Philippines utilizing the qualitative approach and phenomenological research design.

Eight informations were gathered from Police Officers of Police Station 1, 2 and 4 of Bacolod City through in- depth- interview and Focused Group Discussion (FGD). Four themes were formulated as to the experiences and strategies of the police officers wearing body-worn camera during police operations namely: Competence Affects Performance, Technical Problems Invalidate Actions and Technology Ensures Credibility and self-familiarization and pro- action.

The difficulties encountered by the police officers who are wearing body-worn camera during police operations arises commonly on the implementation and operation of body-worn camera which allowed them to develop strategies such as self-familiarization and pro-action in order to achieve their objectives. It is necessary to improve both the device and trainings to be provided for police officers particularly those who are assigned in wearing a body-worn camera during police operation to maximize their performance output.