INDECOM insists body-worn cameras should be used in police operations

By Prince Moore    

 

The Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) is adamant that body-worn cameras should be used by the police despite strong defence by National Security Minister Dr. Horace Chang against its use during police operations to apprehend criminals.

 

Dr. Chang maintains that the cameras have little value in homicide incidents and their primary benefit is the maintenance of public order.

 

But INDECOM Commissioner Hugh Faulkner says the use of the cameras is necessary to provide a clear version of events involving police and civilians.   

 

"From time to time you would see contradictions between the public and law enforcement bodies, and we believe this leads to the erosion of trust. When you have an impartial and independent account taken by technology, then this can reduce the contradiction conflict that arise and the erosion of trust. There are incidents where the body-worn camera would prevent you having just a one-sided account, which in some cases would be the law enforcement body. There are instances when your potential witness is deceased," he argued. 

 

Mr. Faulkner was speaking Thursday on Radio Jamaica's Beyond the Headlines. 

 

But the Jamaica Police Federation is recommending that personnel from INDECOM accompany the police on special operations.

 

Sergeant Arleen McBean, Chairman of the Jamaica Police Federation, said this would provide insight into the thinking of police officers in hostile situations.  

 

"You will not know until you detail one of your agents to join us in the operational field, to observe the critical thinking of the police officer under gun fire. So, whilst we have a policy within the JCF that guides the policemen and women on a daily basis, to guide us how to operate, how to ensure that we give coverage of our interaction with the citizens, it is important to understand the uniqueness of each case," she suggested.