Body Worn Cameras
The Lake Zurich Police Department welcomed the use of body-worn cameras (BWC) in the summer of 2024 to capture audio and video recordings of daily police interactions.
Studies have shown that BWCs affixed to the uniform adds a layer of transparency and accountability for all parties. It quickly clears up situations when there has been a citizen complaint, increases officer professionalism, and assist with criminal prosecutions.
Our Policy
The Lake Zurich Police Department provides sworn police officers (hereafter “officers”) with body-worn cameras (BWCs) as part of its commitment to the belief that video and audio documentation of an officer’s encounter with members of the community is an important and valuable resource. The use of BWCs will facilitate professionalism, accountability, and transparency by documenting interactions with members of the public. This policy is not intended to erode relationships with the community by capturing footage or conversations with citizens who do not wish to be recorded. The Lake Zurich Police Department will strive to respect the reasonable privacy expectations of all people as provided by law. All department BWC usage shall comply with the Illinois Law Enforcement Officer-Worn Body Camera Act (50 ILCS 706/10 et seq.).
The Lake Zurich Police Department recognizes BWCs may not capture all of what an officer sees, hears, senses, or experiences. The recorded images do not provide the totality of the circumstances contributing to an officer’s response to a particular situation. Officers will continue to provide information through police reports to ensure complete documentation of incidents.