Supervisory Review: Occurrence Is Not the Same as Governance

There has been a recurring theme recently in news reports involving supervisory review of BWC footage.

In multiple cases, agencies could demonstrate that footage was reviewed. However, questions persisted around:

• Who was responsible for the initial review and subsequent reviews based on the circumstances of the incident recorded

• What the purpose of the review was (administrative, performance, investigative)

• How findings were documented

• Whether follow‑up actions were required or discretionary

Governance is not satisfied by the fact that review occurred. It requires clarity around ownership, timing, scope, documentation, and accountability. This clarity comes from a well written BWC policy that includes very detailed guidance on the supervisory review process.

Without that policy structure, agencies are left reconstructing intent rather than pointing to a well established process.

Principis Group provides governance‑focused advisory, assessment, and training services supporting defensible, sustainable body‑worn camera programs nationwide.