U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced last month that body cameras will be worn by its officers in a pilot program to demonstrate "that transparency and accountability are essential components" of the ICE mission.
The use of body-worn cameras will be phased in around the country, the Department of Homeland Security and ICE announced in a joint statement on their websites Dec. 21. Locations for the initial phase of the program are Houston, Tex., New York City; and Newark, N.J., the announcement states. Homeland Security Investigations special agents will be the first to wear the cameras, with Enforcement and Removal Operations officers to follow at a later date.
“With its body worn camera pilot, ICE is making an important statement that transparency and accountability are essential components of our ability to fulfill our law enforcement mission and keep communities safe,” Homeland Security Sec. Alexander Mayorkas said in the announcement. “The Department will continue to seek ways to ensure the safety and security of our workforce, our state and local partners, and the public, while at the same time building confidence with the communities we serve.”
The body cameras will be worn during pre-planned operations, the announcement states. Law enforcement officials in the body-camera program will receive prior training on DHS directives for the program; proper use of the camera; legal considerations; and civil-liberties safeguards, according to the announcement.
ICE states the use of body cameras will strengthen its operations such as arrests, implementing search warrants and investigations in the field. The cameras also will increase transparency by recording footage of police conduct and uses of force; footage will also be used for training and evaluation purposes, DHS states.
“The body-worn-camera pilot is an effort to increase transparency between ICE and the communities we serve, enhance officer safety, and deliver on our commitment to accountability,” acting ICE Director Tae D. Johnson said in the announcement. “Safety of both ICE personnel and the public are the primary consideration when implementing these new technologies and tools.”
