Body-Worn Cameras

Body worn cameras are small recording devices worn by officers and police aides to document interactions between law enforcement and the community. These recordings provide an important record of police interactions with the public and can support criminal investigations, prosecutions, and court proceedings, as well as the review of complaints, commendations, use-of-force incidents, and other documented events.

Body-worn camera use is guided by department policy, which outlines when cameras are activated, how recordings are managed and retained, how footage may be reviewed, and when recordings may be released in accordance with applicable law and public records requirements.

Body-worn cameras provide an objective record of police interactions and help officers, supervisors, investigators, prosecutors, and community members better understand documented events. While body worn cameras are one tool among many, they support accountability, evidence-based review, and transparency.

Body-worn cameras are used across many frontlines, investigative, and specialty assignments, including:

• Patrol
• Traffic
• SWAT
• K-9
• Street Crimes Units
• School Resource Officers
• Crisis Response Team
• Bike Unit
• Repeat Offender Detectives
• Burglary Detectives
• Neighborhood Response Team
• Park Rangers
• Mounted Unit
• Special Events Unit

By the early 2020’s, all Patrol personnel up to the rank of Lieutenant were wearing BWC’s. Camera assignments are reviewed periodically based on staffing, operational needs, inventory, and department priorities.

Body-worn camera recordings are stored as digital evidence within a secure management system designed to protect the integrity and security of evidence. Access is limited based on authorized roles and responsibilities, while release of recordings follows established legal requirements and public records processes.

As of August 2026, the department maintains nearly 1.6 million digital evidence files. As body-worn camera use has expanded, the department continues to evaluate evidence management tools to ensure they remain secure, reliable, and practical for operational needs.

Members of the public may request police reports and body-worn camera recordings through the Scottsdale Police Department’s Public Records Request process.

Submit a Scottsdale Police Public Record Request