How Dash Cams Keep Both Police Officers And Civilians Safe
Police dash cameras have been front-and-center in several recent news stories, capturing everything from excessive force to trumped-up charges. But in many ways, in car police video systems serve two important roles: protecting the public and protecting the police. In a recent Pew Research Center survey involving 8,000 police officers, 93% said they’re now more concerned about the dangers their job presents. Much of the public share concerns about their safety when interacting with police officers. Therefore, police dash cam systems have become more important than ever before. Let’s take a closer look at how in car police video systems can keep both officers and civilians safe.
- Dash cams can deter further criminal activity When an officer arrives on scene, he or she may not always know what’s in store. In high-pressure situations, citizens may act in unpredictable ways, especially if they’re scared they might be arrested. But if someone knows their actions will be captured on camera, they may be less likely to act out. Since these camera systems typically tell a more complete story of any incident, they won’t want negative behavior to be caught on tape. Therefore, they’ll be more likely to be well-behaved and not take a big risk in their interactions with officers.
- Car camera systems have a more complete view Most in car police video systems possess the capability to capture images inside the car itself and in front of it. Depending on the scenario, a dash cam may actually be able to see things a police officer may not in the exact moment. Whether an officer is transporting an arrested person to the police station or encounters an inebriated individual out on the road, there’s always some degree of risk involved. Eyewitness accounts may be flawed, but if the dash cam can “see” what occurs both in and outside the vehicle, police departments will have a better idea of what actually happened during a given incident.
- Police cameras can prove innocence or guilt When an officer has been accused of a crime, dash cam evidence is key for proving or disproving innocence. Without video evidence, police encounters will turn into “their word against yours” cases very quickly. Whether the officer in question has been falsely accused or they’re trying to cover up a crime, justice needs to be served. Dash cams will capture the truth and will stand up as evidence in a court of law if need be.
- In car camera systems can help civilians when pulled over If a citizen is pulled over for a DUI or traffic infraction, dash cams can actually help ensure they receive a fair trial. Because many cases like these will come down to individual statements of the incident, this recorded footage will serve as the truest account of the traffic stop. Civilians can request that all interactions occur in front of the dash cam, and if an officer directs that individual away from the camera, they have a right to ask the reasons why. Not only will this protect the civilian but it will cover the officer’s actions, too.
In car police video systems can be used to protect both police personnel and the public-at-large. That’s why they’re essential for any police department. To find out more about how dash and body cams can help your department and city or town, please contact 10-8 Video today.