Body-worn Camera Program

police, communications, body-worn camerasBody-worn cameras are an effective law enforcement tool which can encourage mutual accountability and serve to enhance the understanding of interactions between officers and the public. The recordings provide additional documentation of police-public encounters, and the devices are becoming standard equipment for contemporary policing.

The Salem Police Department launched its body-worn camera program in February 2023 as part of its overall effort to increase transparency and build trust with our community.

To assist the public in understanding the purpose of the program, we provided responses to the most commonly asked questions. We also encourage the public to read the department policy on the program which is available on the Salem Police Transparency Portal.

 

Commonly Asked Questions

Refer to the following list of questions and responses for more information.

What is a body-worn camera? Where will the officer wear it?
Will every officer wear a camera?
Will all interactions with the public be recorded?
Are officers required to notify a person they are being recorded?
Are officers permitted to record inside a private residence?
What about the recording of minors?
What happens if I do not wish to be recorded?
Can officers edit or delete the video recordings?
How long will the video recordings be kept?
How can I get a copy of a video?