Reimagining Guardians and Guardianship With the Advent of Body Worn Cameras

Abstract

The implementation of body worn cameras (BWCs) is occurring at a rapid rate and with relatively little information about their potential impacts on both the police and the citizens they serve. The core assumption underlying this widespread adoption is that BWCs will increase self-awareness among police officers as well as citizens, which will in turn reduce negative outcomes and improve police–citizen relations. At the same time, there is a broader movement to emphasize the function of police officers as guardians rather than warriors. This research draws from a mixed method evaluation of a pilot implementation of BWCs in Philadelphia, PA. We draw from focus groups and pre–post survey results to make the case for a wider conceptual frame in understanding the potential for BWCs to transform policing. Specifically, we argue that cameras can provide a tool for police officers to use in emphasizing their role as guardians. We provide evidence from the evaluation to support this view.