WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is starting a six-month testing period of body-worn cameras and other video recording systems in nine areas of operation, potentially leading to a broader rollout in the future.
Body-worn cameras both increase transparency and decrease the number of complaints and assaults against officers, creating a win-win for the public and law enforcement. Potential benefits include quicker resolution of misconduct disputes and enhanced public trust.
“Piloting body-worn cameras is an encouraging development that promotes security, transparency and accountability in our nation’s largest law enforcement agency,” said Ali Noorani, Executive Director of the National Immigration Forum. “CBP officers perform a critical role not only in keeping us safe but in facilitating the cross-border trade and movement that drives our economy.
“Exploring the potential of body-worn cameras is a promising step toward officer and public safety, agency accountability and commitment to the public’s trust.”