BODY-WORN CAMERAS AND PREVENTION OF POLICE ABUSE OF AUTHORITY: SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the use of body-worn cameras as a mechanism for preventing police abuse of authority, considering the scientific evidence produced on the subject. The research problem consisted of examining whether this technology contributes to reducing abusive practices, strengthening institutional transparency, and improving mechanisms for overseeing police activity. The study was conducted through a systematic literature review using the PRISMA 2020 protocol. Searches were performed in Google Scholar, SciELO, CAPES Journals, and national scientific journal databases, covering the period from 2022 to 2026. A total of 108 studies were identified, of which 25 met the eligibility criteria and comprised the final research corpus. The results indicated that body-worn cameras are associated with increased transparency, strengthened accountability, improved evidence production, and reduced behaviors inconsistent with operational protocols. However, technology alone does not solve structural problems in public security and requires appropriate regulation, training, and oversight. It is concluded that body-worn cameras can contribute to preventing abuses of authority when integrated into structured public policies consistent with the principles of the Democratic Rule of Law.