CCTV Security Cameras Policing the Police

Two Colliding Sides

When the public was told that the presence of CCTV security cameras in public areas was meant to prevent crime and send police running to apprehend offenders. There was little thought on the influence these security cameras would have on the police and the possibility of using those recordings as evidence of police brutality when filing a complaint against erring officers.

The police have two views on CCTV security cameras. One camp deems the gadgets useful in promoting professional conduct when handcuffing drunks, petty criminals, and vicious gangsters. This stemmed from the complaints lodged against some officers and many were suspended from their jobs because they failed to do the arrests according to the book.

On the other hand, the other camp argues that these gadgets slow them down because they are on camera and must bear in mind the ABCs of making arrests. They should never stand in groups or their bosses would rant and rave; they should not be caught by the CCTV security cameras behaving like maniacs when making an arrest. All told, they do not relish the idea being on camera. So like naughty boys, they stay away from these.

Are the Tapes Telling It as It Is?

According to a suspended officer, the tapes tell a different story. Some actions can be misinterpreted as police brutality because video recordings, with no audio for example, cannot record the taunting and the abusive curses coming from the troublemaker.

During the scuffle, the suspect struggles to flee prompting the arresting officer to use more force than usual. In court, what is seen is the beating of the suspect who is on his knees; the number of blows or the severity of these blows can ruin a police career. This happens because the tape only told a part of the story not the sequence of events.

Because their actions are on tape, police officers are constantly reminded to do the drill right while on duty and to protect themselves from malicious complaints. To make sure that police activities are taken from the right context, those manning the CCTV security cameras are mandated to keep an eye on the monitors.

To be on CCTV security cameras mean doing things correctly, according to local laws and polices even in the heat of pursuit of a criminal or subduing an aggressive miscreant. If they cannot do things right, at least they must appear that they are doing things correctly or risk suspension or job termination. The most affected are the new recruits who still have to gain the savvy of experienced police officers.

Still for the Best

CCTV security cameras provide protection for both sides - the police and the public. People feel confident that there are surveillance cameras in public areas; arrested suspects can request a copy of the tape to prove his innocence of a crime, or a police officer can have a copy to disprove accusations leveled against him.

The CCTV security cameras have shaken up the police force. Rogue or inept officers are warned that any abusive behavior or incorrect arresting procedures caught on camera can be grounds for dismissal from the force. You can say that these cameras police the police.

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Article Added on Sunday, October 19, 2008