Body-worn cameras 'of very little value' in police shooting incidents - Chang

National Security Minister Dr Horace Chang has declared body-worn cameras to be “of very little value” in fatal incidents involving the police. 

His position comes after the Independent Commission of Investigations (INDECOM) again raised concerns about the lack of  footage from functioning body-worn cameras in shooting incidents involving the police. 

In its second quarterly report for 2024, INDECOM noted that in the 252 shooting incidents this year, no body-worn camera was activated. 

The commission called for the full implementation of body-worn cameras by the Jamaica Constabulary Force (JCF) and all law-enforcement bodies. 

“Where they have been worn, the majority of cases have shown that officers fail to turn on the body-worn cameras, especially where a shooting incident occurs,” stated Hugh Faulkner, INDECOM commissioner.

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But speaking at a post-Cabinet press briefing this morning, Chang dismissed the concerns. 

“It (body-worn cameras) is of very little value, you don't need to be an expert to understand…you put a camera on your chest, you start shooting at somebody, they start shooting at you, you gonna dive for cover. Policemen, they have helmets and vests, but they are not designed to take shots,” he said. 

He said the “primary benefit” of body-worn cameras is the maintenance of public order, such as its use in the apprehension of street vendors, “and we have heard very little of that sort where police is seen brutalising citizens.” 

He stated that the Ministry of National Security will be meeting with INDECOM to further discuss the issue.

- Sashana Small