Report: Most Americans in Favor of Body Worn Cameras
The survey also found that about half of Americans think the cameras would reduce tensions between citizens and police officers.
A new study found that 60 percent of Americans believe law enforcement officers adopting body worn cameras would heal rifts between police and the communities they serve. Many still don’t know how the technology is used, however.
Research firm YouGov released the report – commissioned by body camera manufacturer Reveal – on Nov. 20.
The study also found that 47 percent of Americans believe tensions between officers and community members would be reduced significantly as a result of the cameras.
RELATED: COPS Releases Guidance on Deploying Body-Worn Cameras
While most people agree with the use of cameras, 17 percent of respondents wrongly believe every police officer around the country uses the technology. Additionally, 24 percent believe the federal government doesn’t support the body camera technology when in fact, the Department of Justice granted $23 million to 73 agencies in 32 states to fund pilot projects for the technology.
The study was conducted for the entire month of September and polled 1,122 adults. Of those 55 or older, 66 percent are in favor of the technology, while 57 percent of millennials support the cameras. Meanwhile, 63 percent of women thought the technology would reduce tensions as opposed to 57 percent of men.
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