Guidelines Established for Baltimore Police Body-Worn Camera Use

In Baltimore, new guidelines have been set regarding the use of body-worn cameras by police officers. The regulations specify when officers are permitted to turn off their cameras during various situations.

Officers are required to activate their cameras during all interactions with the public, particularly during stops, arrests, and use of force incidents. However, there are certain scenarios where they can deactivate the cameras.

Permitted Instances for Deactivation

According to the guidelines, officers may turn off their cameras in specific circumstances, such as:

• When they are engaged in private conversations with other officers.
• During interactions with confidential informants.
• In situations where they are discussing sensitive information that could compromise an investigation.

The intent behind these rules is to balance transparency in policing with the need to protect sensitive information and the privacy of individuals involved in investigations.

These regulations are part of ongoing efforts to enhance accountability and trust between the Baltimore Police Department and the community it serves.

Reported by HarborBeat based on WBAL-TV (source).