How does technology affect the work of Hong Kong Police Force? : a case study of body worn video camera

Abstract

This research seeks to censor how the technology affects Hong Kong Police Force, whereby a study in the usage of Body Worn Camera, or Body Worn Video Camera was elaborated. Since the 20th Century, BWVC has been used by law enforcement agencies to record any incident or interactions between the officers and the public. The first test for the use of BWVC was launched as a trial in UK back in 2005 by security guards against soccer hooligans (The Associated Press, 2007). Since then, significant deployments of this device have been undertaken, extended to 40 UK areas, expanded to other countries around the globe. Starting from 2006, hand-held video recording devices have been in place to capture and record events for investigation and evidential purpose in Hong Kong. In line with the advance in technology, a field trial of BWVC was introduced in 2013 with positive outcomes such as higher degree of transparency and accountability achieved. The scope of usage will extend and it is anticipated the full usage of BWVC will roll out in 2021 that all frontline officers will be equipped with BWVCs. This research includes usage of BWVC in other countries, interviews with nine ex-police officers and nine civilians. Together with their views, a comparison was drawn from the findings which leads to the suggestion of way forward of the usage of this device in Hong Kong.