Body cams are necessary
Published:Thursday | April 24, 2025 | 12:05 AM
THE EDITOR, Madam:
A body camera worn by a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF), especially one who is on frontline duty is, arguably, the most effective piece of hardware/technological tool to assist him, as well as members of the public with whom he/she comes into contact.
It is useful for the JCF High Command, the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM), the media, and the relatives of a dead or alive civilian.Footage captured via the body camera (shows) truths from untruths, especially, in cases where shootings and/or physical encounters/incidences between a member of the JCF and a member of the civilian public occurred. In North America and Europe, the footage captured by body cameras worn by frontline duty members of policemen and policewomen, have assisted greatly, especially in cases, where an officer engaged the use of lethal and nonlethal force, while on duty.
Police personnel not wearing body cameras –and, conversely, civilians without the additional benefit of knowing that every encounter with the police will be captured digitally – is akin to a skydiver jumping out of an aeroplane with a parachute that has a huge hole.Or else like a person standing on a skyscraper’s rooftop terrace which has no protective rails.
PATRICK GALLIMORE