Implications of the Use of Body-Worn Camera Technology on the Objectivity of Assessing Code of Ethics Violations in Police Actions in the Field

The use of Body-Worn Camera (BWC) technology by police officers presents a new dimension in performance monitoring and enforcement of the professional code of ethics, particularly regarding objectivity in assessing ethical violations in the field. BWCs function not only as visual recording instruments but also as a means to ensure accountability, transparency, and the public's faith in the police force. The use of this technology complies with Law Number 30 of 2014 concerning State Administration and Law Number 2 of 2002 with the Indonesian National Police, which places a strong emphasis on professionalism, which emphasizes the principles of accountability and legal certainty. From an ethics enforcement perspective, BWC recordings can be used as an objective assessment tool in National Police code of ethics hearings, as outlined in the National Police Code of Ethics Commission and National Police Chief Regulation Number 7 of 2022 about the Professional Code of Ethics. However, there are legal obstacles to its adoption, including privacy concerns and laws pertaining to the protection of personal data under Law Number 27 of 2022 about Personal Data Protection, and the legality of recordings as ethical evidence, which has not been comprehensively regulated. Furthermore, clear standard operating procedures (SOPs) are still required concerning the storage, management, and use of recordings to prevent misuse. Therefore, the urgent need to establish specific regulations regarding the use of BWCs is crucial to ensure a balance between police accountability and the protection of citizens' rights in a democratic state governed by the rule of law.