The NYPD is Almost Finished Rolling Out Body Cameras — Here's What They've Learned Along the Way

Since 2017, the NYPD has been issuing body-worn cameras to police officers throughout New York City — and by the beginning of March, the rollout to the entire patrol force will be complete.

It's the end of a process that started with a pilot program mandated by a federal judge as a means to encourage transparency and accountability to the public. While it has faced criticism from both civil libertarians and police unions for different reasons, First Deputy Commissioner Benjamin Tucker tells WNYC's Jami Floyd that the body cameras have become an invaluable tool for keeping the NYPD on track.

"That has to do with retraining our officers in cases where we see tactical errors that could put them in harm or jeopardize citizens on the street," Tucker said.

As of March 1, about 21,000 police officers will be equipped with body cameras.

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