DEA Silently Terminates Body Camera Initiative

The Drug Enforcement Administration has terminated its body camera initiative, roughly four years since it began, according to an internal email obtained by ProPublica The relocation occurred discreetly on April 1st, without any formal public notification. The organization justified this step with reference to the Trump administration’s policies. executive order —one that Engadget Notes canceled almost 80 of Biden’s executive orders—which overturned a 2022 mandate for federal law enforcement officers to wear body cameras. However, other branches of the Justice Department like the U.S. Marshals Service and the ATF still enforce camera requirements, as confirmed by their representatives.

Federal agencies initiated body camera policies starting in 2021 amid efforts to enhance transparency following the George Floyd protests. These regulations were further extended through an executive order issued by President Biden in 2022 but were later overturned by President Trump early this year. Specifically concerning the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), they had mandated their personnel to utilize these devices solely during scheduled arrest operations or search warrants conducted domestically; however, they have not made any statements regarding recent developments. Since 2021, less than one-sixth of a $30 million budget allocated for acquiring such equipment has actually been disbursed.

Want to know more in just minutes? We deliver the news the way we like it—really short and unbiased. Subscribe to The News Pulsenewsletters .

Law enforcement oversight groups criticized the decision, arguing that body cameras bolster both accountability and training. Former US Attorney David DeVillers said most body camera footage he reviewed helped clear officers of misconduct, saying their absence may pose a challenge for DEA agents. Research has shown a decrease in complaints in police departments using the technology, though it's unclear if that results from improved behavior or fewer unfounded reports.

With the DEA's program shelved and similar moves elsewhere, experts warn that removing body cameras could hinder transparency and collaboration with local agencies. The FBI referred questions on the matter to the Department of Justice, which didn't offer comment. (This content was created with the help of AI. Read our AI policy .)

More From The Daily Update

・ Trump: It's Time to Terminate the 'Woke' Initiative on Web Connectivity

・ Primary Concern of Pope Leo: Artificial Intelligence

・ Musk's Most Important Mission Isn't DOGE or EVs

・ There's a Facebook "Creator" You've Probably Never Come Across

・ Artificial Intelligence Replica of Deceased Man Confronts His Assassin

The article initially appeared on The News Pulse. DEA Discreetly Terminates Its Body Camera Initiative