BET Greenlights Docu-series ‘Copwatch America’

BET Networks will shine a light on law enforcement with a new docu-series, Copwatch America.

The series, executive produced by Renowned Films and Critical Content, the 10-episode series will follow “copwatchers” who chronicle the activities of police within communities around the country. Through these characters, viewers will come to understand the specific issues facing each community. Armed only with their cameras, these "copwatchers" fight every day to protect citizens, amplify the truth, and keep abuses of power in check, according to the network.

“BET Networks is committed to bringing important stories of systemic issues of race and justice across our nation to light,” said Marisa Levy, vice president and head of unscripted for BET Networks in a statement. “We look forward to partnering with acclaimed storytellers Renowned Films and Critical Content and continue to empower our community and focus on activists who use video cameras to protect the rights and in some cases, the lives of African Americans in police encounters.”

R. Thomas Umstead

R. Thomas Umstead serves as senior content producer, programming for Multichannel News, Broadcasting + Cable and Next TV. During his more than 30-year career as a print and online journalist, Umstead has written articles on a variety of subjects ranging from TV technology, marketing and sports production to content distribution and development. He has provided expert commentary on television issues and trends for such TV, print, radio and streaming outlets as Fox News, CNBC, the Today show, USA Today, The New York Times and National Public Radio. Umstead has also filmed, produced and edited more than 100 original video interviews, profiles and news reports featuring key cable television executives as well as entertainers and celebrity personalities.