What are the limitations of body-worn cameras?

A body-worn camera is an electronic device worn on an officer’s uniform that must be small, rugged and have a battery capable of lasting an entire 12-hour shift. Viewers of body camera footage might expect to see “Made for TV” quality video with good lighting, multiple angles and ideal perspective. In reality, body-camera video is shot from a fixed angle on the front of an officer’s uniform and often in far from ideal conditions. No camera is capable of seeing the same way the person wearing it does. While body-camera video may provide useful additional information and evidence, it can only tell a part of a story. Body-camera footage can supplement but never replace a thorough investigation.

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1. When will the Edina Police Department begin using body-worn cameras?
2. Why use body-worn cameras?
3. Will all police officers wear them?
4. Will officers be able to decide when to stop or start recording?
5. Will officers be able to record in a home or other private area?
6. Do people have to be notified when the body-worn camera is recording?
7. Can I ask the officers to turn off their cameras?
8. How often will officers be recording?
9. How will body-worn cameras be used in schools?
10. What are the guidelines for officers responding to mental health crisis situations?
11. When and how will a body-worn camera video be made public?
12. Who reviews the body-worn camera videos?
13. What are the limitations of body-worn cameras?
14. Can the cameras pre-record events?