In early June, an ABC Four Corners investigation into NSW Police showcased first-hand accounts of police using excessive force against the public.

These stories alleged an internal police culture that willingly covered up wrongdoing to evade accountability.

This is not a novel concept. The 1997 Wood Royal Commission revealed the same cultural deficits in New South Wales.

With a sharp rise in complaints and civil suits against NSW Police since 2020, these issues have gained a renewed focus.

In response to the ABC’s reporting, NSW Police committed to making the use of body-worn cameras mandatory whenever a police power is used or force is initiated.

The policy would align with all other Australian states and territories, except for Western Australia.

Why police are turning to body cameras

There are many purported benefits associated with an increased use of body cameras. One important 2014 experiment found police who wore body cameras were significantly less likely to use force in California in 2012-13.

There is also evidence that body cameras reduce complaints against police – including in NSW. However, this may be due to a decline in false reports and/or those without merit, rather than a reduction in misconduct.

Recorded footage also provides advantages in police........

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