Mar/Apr 2026 - Examining the Ins and Outs of the BWC

The issue at hand is the body-worn camera (BWC). Specifically, we're addressing the difference between what you see and what the BWC captures.

The LVMPD currently uses BWCs from Axon (formerly Taser). The cameras were implemented around 2016 and are mandatory for officers who regularly interact with the public (NRS 289.830). Since their introduction, the LVMPD has amended the policy on numerous occasions. The most recent edition effectively ensures the BWC will almost always be activated. Essentially, your BWC must be activated from the moment you are dispatched to a call until you conclude the call or citizen contact. Depending on the circumstances, all footage may be reviewed, critiqued, and potentially used in the disciplinary process.

LVMPD policy 5/210.01, Section 1 "Activation" states: Officers will activate the BWC as soon as they are assigned a call via radio or MDT, or at the onset of self-initiated activity once safe to do so. If you do not comply with the policy, you open yourself up to discipline. Once a supervisor or investigator has a reason to review your video, they may watch it in its entirety. Even if your use of force is within LVMPD policy, your supervisor can open an SOC if they observe you speeding, talking on the phone while driving, or using profane language during the call. Remember that everything recorded may be viewed by a supervisor or investigator later. Keep it professional as best as possible.

Now that we know the agency is watching, what exactly are they watching? The BWC has a field of view of about 140 degrees, records in high definition, compensates for low light, and misrepresents distance due to a fisheye lens. Your field of view, including your peripheral vision, is less and is in the single digits when you consider where you are focusing your attention. While the viewer could see "the big picture," they may not see your picture. As a result, the viewer will observe details you didn't but may assume you both viewed the event identically. It's an unfair assumption to make, especially when you consider that most video viewed in hindsight is done so from the comfort of an office.

Additionally, anyone who reviews the video already knows the outcome or has an idea of what occurred. They can't watch the video with the same level of uncertainty you had while assigned to the call. Despite this, your supervisor will hold you to the standard they believe is appropriate while reviewing your video well after the event.

In closing, someone's always watching. All it takes is a single action to trigger a reason for your video to be reviewed. It's been my experience that what makes most people angry is all the ancillary and tertiary complaints that arise from reviewing video. We are currently in the grievance process with the LVMPD over what we believe is an inappropriate review of BWC footage by a supervisor. Don't let this deter you from handling your business, but be mindful that almost everything you do and say is being recorded and may be used by the department. As always, stay safe and trust your training.