1. United States
2. Ariz.
3. Letter

ICE's new body camera program will fail without independent oversight and easy public access to footage. I need you to support legislation requiring an external review board with direct access to ICE body camera recordings, particularly for use-of-force and civil rights violation complaints. Body cameras only work when policies are enforced. Over 62% of local law enforcement agencies now use body cameras, but a 2016 study found officers routinely fail to activate them without mandatory policies and consequences. ICE's current policy has serious gaps. It doesn't require recording during vehicle pursuits or transportation to detention facilities, and agents can deactivate cameras when a supervisor deems the scene secure. These loopholes create opportunities for critical moments to go unrecorded. The Office of the Inspector General cannot provide sufficient accountability alone. An independent review board with unrestricted access to footage would ensure thorough investigation of complaints and swift penalties for noncompliance. Without this oversight, body cameras become a public relations tool rather than an accountability measure.