GAO finds CBP and ICE body-worn camera programs need improvements

The Government Accountability Office found that U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement have not updated their body-worn camera program plans since 2022 and 2024, respectively. The agencies have not taken into account significant changes in the programs, including increases in the number of cameras scheduled for deployment and a 2025 pause in further camera deployment.

CBP and ICE have stated desired results for their programs, including enhancing officer safety, transparency, accountability, and public trust. However, the agencies have not implemented results-oriented performance goals and measures. The GAO said doing so would help them assess the results of their body-worn camera programs.

CBP and ICE have established policies related to camera use and the management of footage. They have implemented oversight mechanisms, including supervisory controls on camera use and monthly reviews of footage. The GAO said additional controls, such as mechanisms that automatically activate the camera when emergency lights are engaged, would provide better assurance that ICE personnel capture footage in accordance with policy.

Most CBP and ICE offices have not developed specific operational guidance for personnel on camera use under their unique operational circumstances. The GAO said this lack of guidance increases the risk that personnel will fail to use the cameras as required under policy.

CBP began deploying cameras in fiscal year 2021 and had deployed approximately 11,500 cameras by June 2026, with nearly all of these deployments to Border Patrol. ICE began deploying cameras in fiscal year 2024 and had deployed approximately 4,800 cameras by April 2026, almost evenly to Enforcement and Removal Operations and Homeland Security Investigations.

The GAO reviewed agency documents, including Department of Homeland Security, CBP, and ICE directives on body-worn camera use. The agency also analyzed CBP and ICE data on actual and planned deployment of cameras to component personnel. The GAO interviewed DHS, CBP, and ICE headquarters officials and users of the cameras at 10 field locations that vary in geographic location and status of camera deployment.